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DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS, 2003

1. OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR

1. Dr. Oudho Homenauth - Director

2. Ms. M. Pooran - Confidential Secretary

3. Dr. V. C. Mathur - Crop Planner, ITEC Programme

4. Dr. R. S. Kharb - Seed Expert, ITEC Programme

5. Dr. L. Munroe - Head of Unit

6. Mr. L. Chester - Research Scientist

7. Ms. S. Pooran - Research Assistant

8. Ms. M. Lutchman - Research Assistant

9. Ms. J. Garnett - Research Assistant

10. Mr. R. Adrian - Research Assistant

11. Mr. E. Patram - Research Assistant

12. Ms. L. Badal - Communication Officer

13. Mr. R. Chan - Communication Specialist

14. Ms. N. Hutson - Information Technology Technician

The Office of the Director had responsibility for the following:

1. Research on ‘New’ Crop Types

2. Marketing Information Systems

3. Analysis of Farming Systems

4. Organic Agriculture

5. Information, Communication and Agricultural Support Services

6. Intermediate Savannahs

7. Seed Technology

8. Training

9. Special Projects

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Special projects were executed in the following:

1. Poor Rural Community Support Services Project (PRCSSP)

2. GGMC – Vegetation of a mined out site in Region 10

3. Peanut CRSP project in Region 9.

Staff members from other Departments were integral to the execution of some of the projects. These

included Dr. P. Chesney (Organic Agriculture) and Mr. M. Livan and Mr. D. Fredericks

(revegetation of a mined out site in Region 10).

1. RESEARCH ON ‘NEW’ CROP TYPES

(i) CARROTS

Project Title: Method of improving germination of carrot seed on coarse sand.

This trial was conducted at Kuru Kuru on the coarse sand prevalent in that area. The aim was to

investigate methods of improving germination of carrot. The techniques used were incorporation of

organic matter (cow manure) into the soil, covering the soil with jute sacks soaked in water, shading

the soil with palm branches and combinations of these three.

Analysis of the results showed that the combination of incorporation of cow manure into the soil

and covering the soil with water soaked jute bags improved germination of carrot seed. This

combination also resulted in a higher yield than the control treatment.

Project Title: Carrot variety trial

One trial was conducted at Kuru Kururu on coarse sand and another at Mon Repos Field # 37 on

Sandy clay loam soil. The five varieties used were Royal Cross, Tera Cotta, Amazonia, Talena and

Natarse Amelioree. The trial at Mon Repos was grown under organic conditions while that at Kuru

Kururu was grown with inorganic fertilizer and pesticide use.

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Generally, yields were lower at Mon Repos than at Kuru Kururu. This could be attributed to poor

germination which resulted in low plant density at Mon Repos. At both sites, the highest yield

came from the variety Teracotta which yielded 5.3t/ha at Kuru Kururu and 4.6t/ha at Mon Repos.

(iii) PEANUT

Project Title: Evaluation of peanut varieties at Kairuni

Four varieties of peanut were evaluated at Kairuni, Soesdyke/Linden Highway. The varieties were

Florunner, GN 9482, Basantie and AK 62 (control).

Basantie was the only variety that recorded a higher yield than AK 62. The yield of Basantie was

4.7t/ha while that of AK 62 was 3.5t/ha.

Disease incidence was recorded on a scale of 0 to 9. For the variety AK 62 disease incidence was 5

while for Basantie it was 3. The two other varieties in the study recorded zero disease incidence.

2. ANALYSIS OF FARMING SYSTEM

Project Title: Cost of cultivation and production of pineapple in Guyana 2003

COST OF CULTIVATION AND PRODUCTION

Cost of cultivation (measured in terms of dollars per unit of land) and cost of production (measured

in terms of dollars per unit of output produce) of a commodity provide valuable information on the

relative profitability of a commodity and hence form an essential component of extension efforts

aimed at motivating and convincing producers to adopt cultivation of a particular crop and therefore

induce diversification. An assessment of the cost of cultivation and production is also useful for

price policy interventions in the interest of domestic producers, determining competitiveness of

specific crops, examining production efficiency and for management of international trade in the

highly complex post-functioning of state trading enterprises and trade disputes.

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A farmers’ survey to obtain data for estimating the cost of cultivation/production of fruits and

vegetables in Guyana is in progress. For pineapple, cost of cultivation (dollars per acre and per

hectare) and the cost of production (dollars per tonne and per kg) were computed for the Canals

Polder area in Region 3.

ITEM UNIT RANGE

Cost of cultivation (Cost C3) Per acre (000 $)

Per ha (000 $)

245.30 – 626.13

605.89 – 1546.54

Net returns Per acre (000 $)

Per ha (000 $)

657.17 – 847.20

1623.22 – 2092.58

Cost of Production Per lb ($)

Per kg ($)

Per tonne ($)

6.78 – 11.98

14.92 – 26.35

14916.10 – 26353.26

3. MARKETING INFORMATION SYSTEM

Project Title: Economic Analysis of prices of non-traditional commodities in Guyana, 2003

An analysis of wholesale and retail prices of non-traditional commodities for Georgetown for the

period 1981 to 2000 was conducted. Compound annual growth rates (CARG) were computed for

wholesale and retail prices separately for the period 1981 to 1989 (Period I) and 1990 to 2000

(Period II) to show how prices have moved during these two periods. For these two periods,

coefficients of variation (CV) were also computed to determine the extent of intra-year fluctuations

in prices. The results showed that for almost all commodities the CARG and the CV, both

wholesale and retail prices, were lower during Period II as compared to Period I which indicates a

tendency towards stabilization in prices and lower fluctuations between years. The table below

shows the range of CARG and CV for different categories of non-traditional crops.

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CARG (5) CV %

Commodity Group

Prices 1981 - 1989 1990 - 2000 1981 - 1989 1990 – 2000

Retail 18.75–39.72 7.94-19.40 26.61-74.15 12.74-26.87 Vegetables

Wholesale 14.67-31.84 8.59-21.33 15.88-63.78 15.63-27.55

Retail 23.82-35.34 6.95-20.72 24.65-82.02 10.92-28.82 Fruits

Wholesale 20.34-30.92 9.41-22.86 21.26-67.40 12.93-28.13

Retail 14.91-26.13 15.23-17.10 21.09-69.23 10.01-25.28 Provisions

Wholesale 11.92-25.60 12.99-14.22 23.06-68.35 12.13-30.33

Retail 18.62-27.51 10.66-17.73 28.62-53.64 14.14-38.34 Spices and

Seasonings Wholesale 18.65-26.56 2.67-21.68 27.96-59.65 13.69-28.72

Retail 31.77 15.11 29.88 6.94 Coconut

Wholesale 26.47 13.47 35.77 12.20

Retail 21.02* 7.45 39.12 13.79 Blackeye

Wholesale 28.19* 5.13 39.17 13.26

*Data on blackeye pertains to the period 1982 – 1989

4. ORGANIC AGRICULTURE

In organic agriculture, emphasis was on cocoa, pineapple and compost making.

A. Cocoa

(i) Demonstration Plot

One hectare sized cocoa demonstration plots were maintained at Hosororo in Region 1. These

demonstration plots were developed to demonstrate the practices involved in organic cocoa

production with special emphasis on land preparation, field establishment and soil management.

(ii) Cocoa plant production and distribution

11,000 + Plant successfully budded;

7,000 + plants distributed to farmers (in excess of 30);

11,000 + new seedlings sown in December, 2003

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B. Pineapple

(i) Organic certification

NARI assisted AMCAR to obtain a Certificate of Conformity for EU Third Country Organic

Products from the certifying body ECOCERT SA for an estimated 40t of canned pineapple under

article 5.3 of regulations EEC 209291. The Certificate # 323GY0300zle was issued on May 28,

2003 and is valid for 15 months expiring on August 27, 2004. NARI is the recognised agency

responsible for the internal control system for organic certification of pineapple in Guyana.

(ii) Demonstration plot

The 0.4 ha organic pineapple demonstration plot at Mainstay (new sand pit area) was maintained

through periodic weeding, mulching and liquid manuring. Data were collected on soil chemical

properties, nutrient analysis of pineapple D-leaf, mulch, forest litter, weeds and cassava plant parts

and pineapple plant height. These data will be analysed at the end of the first pineapple harvest in

July 2004 when harvest data will be added to the current data set. Pineapple flowering is expected

in Feb-Mar 2004 and fruit harvest in Jun-Jul 2004. Intercrops of cowpea (Minica #4) and bitter

cassava planted along with pineapple in December 2002 were harvested during 2003. The harvests

were handed over to the farmers of the Mainstay community. The only pest problem observed, a

multi-coloured sucking bug, was treated with Neem-X, an organic insecticide obtained and

provided by NARI as part of its ongoing support to farmers. A new Knap-Sac sprayer to apply the

insecticide was loaned to the farming community by NARI.

(iii) Visit of President Jagdeo and Minster Sawh

On the 31st October 2003, President B. Jagdeo and Minster S. Sawh visited the demonstration plot

on the way to the official ceremony to open the pineapple processing facility at Mainstay Lake. The

President, along with other speakers (Canadian High Commissioner, Director of AMCAR) praised

the alliance among NARI, AMCAR and the farmers, which led to the realization of production,

certification and launching of organic pineapple. The President expressed the hope that the

partnership will continue and that an organic pineapple industry will emerge as a result of the

alliance. He also indicated that the pilot project, selected varieties and technologies generated

through NARI’s research should drive and guide the development of the industry.

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(C) Assessment of local raw materials for composting:

Composting is a way by which waste materials can be converted to useful by-products. The

objective of this study was to determine which composition of materials gave the best compost.

Nine bins were set up using cow, sheep and duck manure, composted with grass, Minica #4 and

water lettuce over a five-month period. Results indicated that treatments 1 (duck manure & grass)

and 8 (cow manure & water lettuce) had an ideal pH of 7 whilst the other treatments had a pH of 6-

8 at the end of the composting period. The C:P ratio was lower than expected and ranged from 22:0

in the first month to 80:6 in the fifth month. The C:P ratio increased as the composting time

increased. The C:N ratios ranged from 10-12.5 for treatments 2 (duck manure & water lettuce), 3

(duck manure & minica) and 6 (cow manure & minica). The other treatments were below 10% at

the end of the composting period. Based on the results of the study, cow manure and Minica #4 are

recommended as materials suitable for composting.

4. INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES

(i) Library and Documentation Centre

Objective: To supply timely, and current information service to researchers and others in

the agricultural sector.

Processing of Materials

Cataloguing of backlog material continued

WINISIS system continued to be updated

Re-checking of entries in the NARIL database continued with 313 being completed.

A proposal of circulation policies and procedures was completed

Books received totaled 49

Journals and institutional publications received totaled 602

FAO documents received totaled 66

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Reference & Information Dissemination

Persons made use of the CD-ROMS and the Internet for bibliographic searches

Book titles were done throughout the year and distributed to the relevant personnel

Sharing of resources with Agricultural Information Services/Systems

Free publications from sister institutions were received from FAO, CTA, ICRISAT, IIMI,

and AVRDC.

Ms. Karen Kowlessar of IAST received an updated version of the items in the NARIL

database for uploading to the INSAT website.

NARI 2002 Annual reports were distributed to the relevant libraries

(ii) Communications

During 2003 the unit was actively involved in video recording, newspaper article production, school

tours, photography, booklet and leaflet layout production and exhibitions.

Exhibitions:

The unit meaningfully participated in the following national activities:

• Caribbean Agricultural and Industrial Exhibition and Fair

• Launching of Agriculture Month 2003

• World Food day

• Guyana Nite

• Essequibo Nite

• Linden Nite

School tours:

Three hundred and eleven students and 28 accompanying teachers from Regions 3, 4, 5, and 6

visited NARI’s facilities in 2003. Of the nine schools accommodated eight were CXC and SBA

classes while one visit was from the Le Premiere Academy, a nursery school in Georgetown.

The main areas of interest continue to be crop protection and budding and grafting even though four

of the schools requested visits to the Livestock farm.

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(iii) Information Technology

The following tasks were accomplished by the Information Technology Unit for the year 2003:

a) Routine maintenance of computers and peripherals.

b) Maintenance of NARI’s website.

c) Converting ten of 120 of the Soil Reports of the Soil Survey Department from Microsoft

Word to Adobe PageMaker 6.5.

d) Creation of the First Edition of the “Compilation of Soil Reports” CD.

This year the I. T. Unit acquired new equipment:

1. Four IBM Think Centres with Pentium 4 including four IBM 15” monitors. These were

distributed to the following departments:

• Accounts

• Administrative Manager

• Agronomy

• Post Harvest

2. Four Hp Deskjet 3600 printers. These were distributed to the following departments:

• Agronomy

• Biotechnology, Plant Protection and Plant Genetic Resources

• Post Harvest

• PRCSSP

3. One Benq LCD 15” monitor. This was given to the Director.

4. Four APC 500 UPS. These were distributed to the following departments:

• Agronomy

• Dr. Mathur

• Post Harvest

• Office of the Director.

5. One APC 750 UPS. This was kept by the I. T. Unit

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6. Two Iomega 250mb Zip drives. One was given to the Horticulture Department and the other

kept by the I. T. Unit.

(iv) Soils Laboratory

During 2003, the Chemistry Laboratory provided analytical services to farmers, N.A.R.I.

researchers, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (G.G.M.C.), University of Guyana Students

and Guyana Rice Development Board (G.R.D.B.).

Sample Status

One thousand and six samples were received in 2003. Of these, 861 were soil samples. Researchers

brought 354 samples, 235 were from various agencies and 272 from farmers. However, from this lot

only 310 soil samples were completely analysed and six analyses done on the other 551 soil

samples.

One hundred thirty-five plant tissue samples were received and analysed in 2003. These samples

were from researchers of N.A.R.I. and other agencies. The determinations done were nitrogen (N),

and phosphorus (P).

Ten water samples were received and analysed for the year. These samples came from DIDCO and

farmers. The water samples were analysed for pH and electrical conductivity.

6. INTERMEDIATE SAVANNAHS

Ebini Operations

Germplasm

A germplasm plot is being maintained. Included in the collection are nine mung bean, four peanut,

one pigeon pea, one soybean, three sorghum, one maize, fourteen cowpea and four rice accessions.

On the advice of Dr. Kharb, this plot was cultivated only during the May/June season.

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Sheep and Goat

Production continued to be hampered by deaths. Animals died as a result of various infections and

attack by wild animals. It must be noted that not even one visit was made to Ebini by a veterinary

officer during the year. There is a need for the animals to be checked at least on a quarterly basis to

ensure that good health is maintained. Repair of pens also posed a problem because of lack of a

power saw to acquire material.

Mineral supply and various animal health products continue to be essential for sheep and goat

production in Ebini. At least one ram is still required to facilitate the three groups of animals and

prevent in breeding.

Sheep count at the end of the year was eighty-two females (an increase of sixteen from the previous

year) two rams (same as the previous year), 22 weaner males (increase of 17 over the previous year)

and seven lambs. There were 26 deaths during the year, of which 21 were lambs.

Goats have increased from 12 in 2002 to a total of 23 in 2003. The count stands at one ram, six

adult females, six weaner females, five weaner rams and five kids (three males and two females).

Orchard crops

Orchard crops continued to be maintained. Among those being maintained were rough lemon,

guava, West Indian cherry, dwarf cashew and dwarf golden apple. Some passion fruit and a small

amount of dried sorrel were delivered to the Accounts Department for sale.

Pineapple plants produced only a few small fruits. They are in need of fertilizer. During the year

another two thousand suckers were planted. There continued to be problem of individuals removing

dwarf golden apple plants from the nursery area. A concerted effort is being made to end this

problem.

Maintenance of this orchard requires continuous brush cutting and circle weeding of trees and it is

thought that a motorized weeder can greatly assist in the maintenance of this orchard especially

since the labour pool is getting smaller.

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It is expected that citrus seedlings with rough lemon root stock, passion fruit; dwarf cashew and

guava seedlings can be made available during the next year to farmers in the river community.

Seed/grain production

Production of Cowpea (Minica 4, California 5), sorghum and maize were the major focus. There is,

however, a need to have the inputs adequately supplied at the critical times.

During the year sorghum and maize suffered as a result of not having fertilizer available when it

was required, however, we were able to harvest enough sorghum to have seeds for the May/June,

2004 season and grains available to feed sheep and goats. The same can be said for maize.

Approximately five hectares of maize and three hectares of sorghum were planted during the

May/June season 2003, but yields were poor as a result of lateness of fertilizer compounded by a

weed problem.

Minica 4 and California 5 production was somewhat affected by weeds and as a result production

was moved to other plots.

Approximately 350 kg of California 5 grains were made available for sale at the Trade Fair.

Approximately 360 kg of Minica #4, 45 kg of pigeon pea and approximately 520 kg of various

cowpea accessions were also delivered to the Accounts Department for sale. Twenty kilograms of

Basanti and 35 kg of AK62 peanut were also delivered to the Farm Manager for drying then to the

trade fair.

A) Aerial Photo-Interpretation

The study above was conducted by Mr. Harold Ramdin. A summary of his findings is given below:

The four discrete savannah land areas under study, were the Wiruni, Tacama/Ituni,

Kibilibiri/Eberoabo left bank Berbice River, and Ebini/Kimbia/Torani, right bank Berbice River.

The four savannah land areas are located within coordinates 57° 30’ to 58° 15’ west longitude and

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5°.00 to 5°.45’ north latitude. These four savannah land areas form part of the “Intermediate

Savannahs” areas, which are located in the north-eastern part of Guyana.

Government has placed much importance on the development of the Intermediate Savannahs. It is

offering incentives e.g duty free concessions on essential machinery to prospective investors and

land leases up to fifty years are granted. The present savannah land areas are open lands, that is,

they consist of natural xeromorphic grasses and stunted vegetative shrubs, which would permit

easy, and in-expensive land clearing and field preparation. The areas consist of moderately well to

well drained soils which would reduce the needs for artificial drainage. The topography of the area

is undulating and could accommodate minimum tillage and large-scale cultivation for orchard crops

and pasture grasses. Soil conservation measures must, however, become an integral part for all

farming operations.

The interpreter used the process of aerial photo-interpretation to determine the location and to

estimate the acreages of savannah lands in the four savannahs listed in paragraph one. Aerial

photographs of the area were flown and produced by the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1950 and 1952,

scale 1:60,000; and by Terra Surveys, a Canadian Guyana Mapping Company (CGM) in 1967 and

1970, scale 1:40,000. Basemap sheets, scale 1:50,000, were produced by the Directorate of

Overseas Surveys for the Lands and Surveys Commission. Some of the photographs were of poor

quality.

A reconnaissance, and then a systematic study of several ground features, in the aerial photographs,

were undertaken. Some objects were identified by their shape, size and pattern, tone or hue, texture,

shadows and their associations. Variations in tone were major contributions in this interpretation.

The tonal differences depended on the amount of light that is reflected by the object. The amount of

light reflected depends on the nature and surface of the object, angle of reflection, and angle of

exposure to the sun. Some other elements, which took prominence in the interpretative process,

were shape, contrast and sharpness.

The mechanism employed to execute this programme, was an interpretation of the related physical

elements observed in the aerial photographs. Firstly, a reconnaissance was undertaken to recognize

and identify the major geomorphic features, secondly, a closer and systematic examination was

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made of the differentiating features of various elements and their patterns, and thirdly, to craft a

legend, which had to be adjusted and re-adjusted, until a complete adjustment was acceptable. Tonal

variations of images, in the aerial photographs, were used intensively. The three main separations in

the above exercise are the savannah lands, woodlands, forested areas and drainage systems. It

became essential to separate the savannah lands having different growth density of shrubs e.g thin

density, medium density and thick density. This knowledge, would sensitize the developer, in the

process of land preparation and land development, to the kinds of machinery to be used.

The table below gives an abbreviated summary of acreages of brown sand and other vegetation in

the four areas.

Brown Sands sqv. Lands

Areas Total

Acreages Acres Hectares Sq. Mls.

Other

Vegetation acres

(i) Wiruni

71639

29639

11995

46

42000

(ii) Tacama/Ituni

272665

76692

31037

120

176091

(iii) Kibilibiri/Eberoabo

175970

51996

21030

81

124004

(iv) Ebini/Kimbia/Torani

183539

51533

20855

80

111898

Total

703813

209860

84929

328

453993

Total acreages for I, II, III, IV savannahs land areas = 703818 acres, 28429 ha, 1099 sq. mls; of

brown sand = 209830 acres, 84917 ha, 328 sq. mls; of white sands = 19882 acres, 8046 ha, 31 sq.

mls; of forests, and woodlands = 453992 acres, 183728 ha, 709 sq. mls.

The soils of the Intermediate Savannahs land areas are vulnerable to erosion. Their positions in the

soils-cape, their textural and structural characteristics and the climatic conditions over them all play

important roles to enhance erosion. The systems of land preparation, development and management

would be different from those in the coastal areas and therefore would require modified

management systems to suit the environment.

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There is enormous potential for agricultural development in the Intermediate Savannahs, but the

technology is intricate. The area occurs in undulating/rolling topography with slopes ranging from 3

to 15-17 %. There are numerous gully systems which form a vast network in the entire savannah

landscape. The area has few large creeks/rivers with fast flowing good quality water. Subsurface

water is not too deep and has desirable qualities for irrigation and livestock.

The savannah lands occur on sloping topography and consist of excessively drained, well and

moderately well drained soils having desirable texture but weak structural characteristics. The soils,

generally speaking, are sands over loamy sands, loamy sands over sandy loam, sandy loam over

sandy clay loam and sandy clay loam over sandy clay. They are low in organic matter, low in

cation exchange capacity and low in water holding capacity. They are also very strongly acid and

low in plant nutrients. They occur in an ecosystem where rainfall occurs as “flash floods”. Erosion

would occur, firstly as sheet erosion, then followed by rill erosion, and eventually lead to gully

erosion. Soil conservation measures must be compulsory in all farming systems. Systems to

maintain organic matter in the soils are also important. The soils are well and moderately well

suited for orchard crops (all citrus) annuals as black eye peas, red beans, peanuts, pasture grasses

and beef cattle. A high level of management would be required and must include uncompromising

conservation measures in all field operations.

B) Visit By Japan Overseas Plantation Centre for Pulpwood (JOPP)

NARI and the Guyana Forestry Commission facilitated a visit by a six member team from JOPP

during November 2nd to November 8th, 2003.

JOPP was interested in making substantial investments in developing industrial plantations in the

savannahs to provide raw materials for pulp and paper production.

Visits were made to several locations in the savannahs. Soil samples together with the relevant

literature were supplied to the team. A response is currently being awaited.

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C. Technical Support and Provision of Planting Material:

NARI continues to provide technical support and planting material to investors in the Savannahs.

In excess of 30,000 fruit plants were made available. This has resulted in increased orchard acreages

in the savannahs. Further, the Paulownia plot established by Georgia Caribbean was also

maintained.

7. SEED TECHNOLOGY

Project : Cowpea Germplasm Evaluation Trial

(O. Homenauth, R. Kharb and L. Jagbir)

Results : The eleven accessions of ‘blackeyed’ cowpea received from California (USA) were

evaluated at the NARI, Mon Repos research farm during September – November, 2003 for different

qualitative and quantitative characteristics. Each genotype was replicated twice and accommodated

in a three row (60cm apart) plot.

A substantial amount of variability was found among genotypes for both the qualitative and

quantitative characters. The morphological characters like leaflet size; pigmentation on stem,

pedicel and unripe pod; mature pod and seed size and colour were found most distinguishable which

can be useful in varietal identification and seed certification. Among quantitative characters

maximum variation was observed for seed yield followed by number of pods per plant and

minimum for maturity and seed dimensions. The characters pods/plant, seed length and test weight

were found significantly and positively correlated with seed yield. These characters can be useful in

selection of genotypes/plants with high seed yield potential.

On the basis of mean values of quantitative characters, three genotypes (NC-1, NC-3, NC-4) were

found promising. The genotype NC-2, though a poor yielder due to poor germination and plant

stand was found promising for many other desirable characters. All these promising genotypes will

be evaluated in a replicated seed yield trial in the next season.

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Project : A Survey on Vegetable Seed Marketing in Guyana.

(R. Kharb and O. Homenauth)

Results: The agro-climatic conditions in Guyana are suitable for cultivation of a wide range of

vegetable crops. Vegetables are of considerable importance both for domestic markets and exports.

During the triennium 1999 – 2001, an average 302.3 tonnes of fresh produce of about one dozen

vegetables were exported. This quantity accounted for 9.3 per cent of the total export of the non-

traditional agricultural commodities. Propagation of vegetables is done mostly by seeds. The seed

is a basic and crucial input governing the production of vegetables. Vegetable growers either use

their own saved seed or mostly depend on outside agencies for meeting their requirements.

Therefore, a survey was conducted with the objective of determining the kinds/varieties of seed

available in the market and the prices being paid for these. The data on wholesale prices were

collected from the seed dealers of Georgetown and Parika.

The seeds of more than seventy varieties/hybrids of about thirty vegetable crops are presently

marketed by different seed dealers and their agents. Large variations were observed in market seed

prices influenced by several factors mainly due to variety/ hybrid, package size, container type,

dealers, seed producing company (brand name) and their combinations. For example, the market

prices of tomato variety ‘Calypso’ ranged between G$21000 – 30000 per kg whereas the prices for

tomato hybrid ‘Challenger’ ranged from G$180,000 to 240,000 per kg. Similarly in case of

boulanger, the seed prices ranged for ‘Black Beauty’ variety (G$10,000 – 18,000 per kg) and for

‘Epic’ hybrid seed (G$176,000 – 184,800 per kg). The hybrid seed costs 10-12 times more than the

seed of any open-pollinated variety of a particular crop. So, one should initially decide and select a

suitable variety or hybrid for cultivation, based on what the market demands are.

As the quantity of seed in a packet/container increased, the prices were proportionately lowered, in

some crops considerably. Thus, a substantial amount can be saved by purchasing heavier seed

packages. Likewise, farmers can spend 20-50 per cent less money on purchase of heavier seed

packets for most of the crops. The packaging material of the container also affects seed prices to

some extent. The prices of 100g seed packet of cucumber variety ‘Chipper’ varied from

G$700(BON), G$975(NM), G$1000(SIM) to G$1100(PS) due to brand name of seed producing

company. The prices of 100g seed packet of watermelon variety ‘Charleston Gray’ were almost

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doubled (G$865BON; G$1650SIM). This point should also be considered while purchasing seed of

particular variety. The hybrid seeds of some crops were sold by number of seeds, not by weight,

which would also increase the cost-price of the seed material.

Considerable differences were observed in the market prices of seeds at the level of dealers/sub-

dealers/agents. From dealer to dealer, the prices of 20g seed packet of boulanger varieties ‘Black

Beauty’ and ‘Long Purple’ ranged between G$200-325 (50-60% higher) and G$260-525 (50-100%

higher), respectively. Even in case of 100g seed packet, the variation in prices was 39-63 per cent.

Similarly, variations in prices were also found in other crops. So, in the presence of such a large

variation in the seed prices of each crop at dealers’ level, the seed should be bought after thorough

enquiring and comparing the market prices for that particular crop variety. The hybrid seeds of

some crops were also sold by number of seeds and not by weight. This practice would increase the

cost-price of the seed material.

Presence of large number of varieties/hybrids (mostly untested and recommended),large variations

in market seed prices and unawareness of farmers to use of quality seed of improved varieties

makes it a difficult task to procure good quality seed of the choice variety at reasonable prices.

Hence some points were suggested to assist farmers in procuring good quality seed of a genuine

variety at comparatively cheaper rates. The majority of vegetable seeds are imported in the country.

There should be proper records of import of seed or any propagating material and these must be

imported with permission or license from the government. Otherwise, it may cause problems in

coming years in the agricultural sector of the country. Thus, there is urgent need to develop seed

rules and regulations.

- 19 -

8. TRAINING

The major training activities conducted in 2003 are shown below:

No. Date Training Course Location Target

1. March 5-7 Development of the Peanut

Industry in the Rupununi

Lethem, Region 9 Peanut farmers in Region 9

2. May 02 Growing of Carrots Kuru Kururu,

Region 4

Farmers of Kuru Kururu &

Laluni

3. May 13 Principles & Practices of

Organic Agriculture

Mainstay/Whyaka,

Region 2

Pineapple farmers

4. June 10-13,

2003

Introductory Soil –

basic principles of Soil

Management

Mon Repos Staff of GGMC & NARI

5. June 23-27 Pest Management Training

Course

Mon Repos Extension agents, agricultural

field technicians and educators

6. Sept. 5 Refreshner and advanced

training in organic cocoa

production.

Hosororo,

Region 1

Cocoa farmers of Region 1

7. Oct. 15 Organic Pineapple products Mainstay/Whyaka,

Region 2

Pineapple farmers

8. Oct. 28-29 Improved fruit and vegetable

production

Linden, Region 10 Farmers of Region 10

9. SPECIAL PROJECTS

(A) Management of Soursop wasp, Bephrata maculicollis

Evolution of several strategies for the management of the soursop wasp, Bephrata maculicollis was

conducted by Dr. L.Munroe at Mr. Damion Da Silva’s farm at Parika. The justification for and the

status of this project are summarized below. Further work will be initiated in 2004.

- 20 -

Justification:

Annoa fruits, especially soursop, are attacked by the soursop wasp, which bores into fruits and later

enters the seeds. Fruits eventually become riddled with holes and secondary infestation occurs

causing them to rot. The problem is acute under an intensive production system, thus making

commercial production of the crop extremely difficult. Chemical pesticides are not effective in

controlling the pest, protecting fruits against attack therefore seems to be the best approach in

tackling the problem. A combination of such methods, used in an integrated manner is proposed.

Such a strategy should ensure the marketability of fruits without compromising consumers’ health.

Status:

Of the three methods proposed isolating individual fruits with paper bags, spraying fruits with neem

solution and pheromone traps, only the first one was applied. This fruit trial ran from August to

November 2003, and was intended to acquire some baseline information, which was not garnered

from the literature review.

The data gathered from the study showed that isolation with paper bags did improve marketability

of fruits.

Fruits selected for isolation were based on size, 5-7 cm long, the absence of visible holes, and

insects and other blemishes on the surfaces: their ages were unknown.

One hundred and twenty five fruits and 15 flowers were isolated; no flower developed into fruit.

Holes caused by the wasps were seen in 8.8% of fruits, and 12 %, although not having holes, were

heavily infested with the pink mealybug. Rotting fruits amounted to 3.2% of the total, while only

0.8% of the fruits failed to develop after isolation.

The skin of isolated fruits was paler green and softer in texture than those not isolated.

Bags had to be replaced at least once during fruit development; all became undone at the pasted

seams. Some were damage due either to branches brushing against them when they were wet, or

birds alighting on or picking them also when they were wet.

- 21 -

The pasted seal of bags therefore needed to be reinforced with tape during the life of the project.

Among the various elements of the project which need refining are:

a) The best age at which to isolate fruits, and

b) The age at which it is safe to remove bags so that colour could be improved and the

skin toughened up.

(B) Revegetation of a mined out site in Linden

A collaborative research project between NARI and GGMC was initiated with the objective of

revegetating approximately six hectares of mined out areas, in Linden, with plant species that have

economic importance.

A cadastral survey was done in the project area. Seven contour lines, approximately 30 meters

apart, were demarcated in an area of approximately 4 ha. Limestone in the form of low grade rock

phosphate was applied in a 1-meter swath along the contour lines. Vetivier grass was planted along

the contour lines and on two of the gullies.

The pasture was planted with B. humidicola (obtained from Moblissa). Limes and Paulownia were

also planted. These are currently being evaluated.

(C) Poor Rural Community Support Services Project (PRCSSP)

A summary of the results of the completed projects undertaken with the PRCSSP is given below.

1. Varietal evaluation of seven varieties of sweet corn

A number of sweet corn varieties were recently introduced in to Guyana. There is need to identify

varieties which are high yielding, adapted to local environment and resistant to major pests and

diseases. Trials were initiated to identify varieties with the above characteristics. The varieties

evaluated were Breeder’s choice, Silver Queen, Early Sunglow, Honey and Cream, Java, Golden

Bentham and F1 Hybrid. The highest yielding varieties were Golden Bentham and Java, which

yielded 20.9 and 18.5 t/ha, respectively.

- 22 -

2. Yield response of Sweet Corn to four levels of nitrogen fertilizer on Pegasse soil,

Region 3

A trial was conducted to determine the yield response of two varieties of sweet corn (F1 Hybrid and

Golden Bentham) to four levels of nitrogen. The varieties were identified from previous studies

conducted. The experiment was a 2X4 factorial conducted according to a complete randomized

block design with three replicates at two farm sites. Urea was used as the source of nitrogen at 0,

50,100 and 150 kg N/ha. Results indicated that there were significant differences (P=0.05) in yields.

A nitrogen rate 150 kg/ha achieved the highest agronomic yield of 25.4 t/ha.

3. Response of Cauliflower to five levels of nitrogen fertilizer on Pegasse soil,

Region 3

Cauliflower is a new crop type that has been recently introduced into Guyana from previous

evaluations, it has shown good adaptability to the local environment and resistance to pest and

diseases. The variety recommended for use is Maya. This trial investigated the effect of five levels

of nitrogen on the yield of the variety Maya. The five treatments were arranged according to

randomized complete block design. The nitrogen levels were 0, 80, 160, 240 and 320 kg/ha. The

results indicated that there were significant differences (P=0.05) among the treatments. However, no

significant differences were observed between the two higher levels of nitrogen, which had yields of

9.20 and 9.38 t/ha respectively. The recommended rate for maximum agronomic yield is 240 kg/ha.

4. Varietal evaluation of eight varieties of cabbage.

Evaluation of cabbage varieties was done to select suitable varieties for large-scale production in

Guyana. These varieties must be resistant to major pest and diseases and suitable for local

conditions. Trials were conducted on eight varieties of cabbage namely Rustica, Salvation (local),

Sahel, Tropica Cross, Tete Noire, Copenhague, Santa and Alta. The highest yielding varieties were

Sahel, Rustica and Tropica Cross with yields of 21.4, 19.4 and 16.3 t/ha, respectively. The highest

yield from the local variety was 17.9 t/ha.

- 23 -

5. Demonstration on the use of inoculum with Minica IV

Inoculum is a soil enhancer, which contains bacteria that are used to fix atmospheric nitrogen into

the soil. It is produced locally, however, it is not widely used. It works best with leguminous crops

thus reducing the amount of nitrogen fertilizer required by plants. Trials were conducted on two

farms for demonstration purposes. Seeds were treated with inoculum and others with no inoculum.

Results indicated that yields were higher for seeds treated with inoculum (19.2 and 41.4 t/ha

respectively).

2. AGRONOMY DEPARTMENT

Head of Department: Ms. B. Forde

Project Officers: Mr. E. Ralph

Ms. G. Parris1

Mr. C. Kissoonchand

Ms. A. Peters

Mr. R. Seepaul2

Project Technicians: Ms. R. Cato

Ms. C. Cort

Ms. K. Benjamin3

INTRODUCTION:

When the National Agricultural Research Institute was reorganized in 2003, the Agronomy

Department was charged with research and development of the following:

Root and Tuber Crops - cassava, sweet potato, yam, eddo and plantain

Vegetables ochro, bora, boulanger, tomato, pepper, vine crops and

leafy vegetables

1 Transferred to Post Harvest and Agroprocessing Department, NARI, 2003, October 08 2 Joined the Agronomy Department, 2003, October 01 3 Resigned from NARI, 2003, July 21

- 24 -

Grain Legumes - cowpea, peanut, soybean and pigeon pea

Development of management systems

During 2003, the department worked in all four areas.

The commodities dealt with were sweet potato, tomato, sweet pepper, boulanger, cabbage, bora,

ochro, cauliflower and broccoli. Activities were related to crop improvement, crop management,

seed production and information dissemination.

1. CROP IMPROVEMENT

Project Title: Influence of soil type and fertility on plant growth and yield of nine sweet potato

varieties.

This trial was planted on a farmer’s plot at Parika/Salem, in November 2002 and harvested in

March 2003. The varieties were Dilip Singh, Muntaz Pink Skin, Muntaz White Skin, Conway

Purple Stem, Kuru Kuru, Terry, Tapato, Orlando and Carmichael White potato. Yields were

generally low because of problems with drainage but the cultivar Terry appeared the most adaptable

to the conditions giving the highest yield of 3.3 t/ha.

Project Title: Varietal evaluation of new varieties of tomato.

The purpose of this study was to identify varieties of tomato with high yield, good horticultural

characteristics and resistance/tolerance to the main pests and diseases in Guyana. Eight varieties

from the USA and Technisem Seed Company were compared to the recently introduced Alafua

Winner. The varieties were Caracoli, Calinago, Tima, Tropimech, F1 Sumo, Rio Grande, Burpee’s

hybrid and Better boy.

- 25 -

Calinago produced a higher yield (63.5 t/ha) than the control Alafua Winner (48.3 t/ha). The two

other promising varieties identified were Tropimech with a yield of 40.5 t/ha and Burpee’s hybrid

with a yield of 40.2 t/ha. Burpee’s hybrid produced large fruit (70g), Tropimech medium fruit

(50.4g) and Calinago and Alafua Winner small fruit of 27.4 g and 30.3 g respectively.

Project Title: Sweet pepper evaluation

Five cultivars of sweet pepper obtained from Technisem were transplanted 42 days after sowing.

These cultivars were Capela, Stella, F1Nobili, Yolo Wonder with California Wonder as the local

check; a very small number of seeds of the cv Stella was provided.

Cv Stella provided the highest yield of fresh fruit at 4,126 kg/ha; F1Nobili produced 3,301 kg/ha;

Capella 2,698 kg/ha; Yolo Wonder with 2,125 kg/ha and California Wonder the lowest yield with

1,959 kg/ha. F1Nobili however, had the highest fruit weight of 43.9 g; California Wonder 39g;

Stella 35g; Yolo Wonder 30.7g and Capella 29.1g. Generally, high yields were associated with

higher number of fruits per plant. Mean plant height ranged from 34.6 cm (Yolo Wonder) to 59.4

cm (Stella).

Project Title: Evaluation of introduced varieties of ochro

The objective was to identify improved ochro varieties with high yield and good horticultural

characteristics.

Five varieties were compared with the newly introduced Clemson Spineless and Santa Cruz.

The varieties were Indiana, Volta, Mexicana, North and South Hybrid and Red Velvet. Yields of

Indiana (18.2 t/ha), Mexicana (16.3 t/ha) and North and South Hybrid (13 t/ha) were higher that

those of Clemson Spineless (10 t/ha) and Santa Cruz (9.6 t/ha). Indiana also produced the greatest

number of fruits.

- 26 -

Project Title: Evaluation of Cauliflower varieties

Evaluation of the varieties Farmer’s Extra Early, Maya, New Snow and Snow Flower were

completed. Farmer’s Extra Early, New Snow and Snow Flower all attained 50 % head initiation

and first harvest within 50 days after transplanting (DAT). Maya was a later maturing variety with

50% of plants forming heads at 70 DAT.

Farmer’s Extra Early produced the smallest curds and the lowest yields; Snow Flower and New

Snow produced the largest heads yielding 4.9 t/ha and 2.7 t/ha respectively. Maya produced a poor

marketable yield of 0.7 t/ha. Much of the crop showed visible signs of phosphate deficiency and it

is possible that the low yields were a consequence of low phosphate mobility in the soil.

Project Title: Evaluation of Broccoli Varieties

Nine varieties of broccoli were established and all varieties except Italian Green and Titleist

produced heads. Early Value produced heads the earliest with Green King and Green King No 2

producing heads the latest. Green King No 2 and Early Value produced the largest heads giving

yields of 1.7 t/ha respectively. Distinct differences in the quality of heads were observed among

varieties.

After the main head had been harvested, many varieties produced side shoots. Early Value

produced by far the largest number of side shoots per head, and this yield (2.0 t/ha) made a

significant addition to that produced by the main head. Other varieties only produced a small yield

of side shoots.

2. TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Project Title: Factors affecting germination of carrot on coarse sand.

This trial was conducted at Kuru Kururu. Three techniques were evaluated to improve germination

of carrot. These were: incorporation of cow manure into the soil, covering the soil with jute bags

soaked in water and shading the soil with palm branches. Measurements of soil temperature

indicated that addition of cow manure or shading the soil with palm branches lowered the

- 27 -

temperature by 10C while covering the plots with jute sacks lowed the temperature by 20C. A

combination of all three methods lowered soil temperature by 40C. Incorporating cow manure in

the soil resulted in more rapid germination than either of the other treatments but had no effect on

the final number of plants germinating.

Project Title: Identification of Gemini Virus in tomato

It has been observed, over the past three years, that a virus has been adversely affecting tomato from

the transplanting stage to the flowering stage. Yield reduction has been estimated to be more than

30%.

The ELISA test was used to determine whether Gemini virus was present in tomato plants collected

from different areas of Guyana’s coastland. The test found that the virus was present in the plant

stems, leaves, flowers, seeds of fresh fruits and stored seed. No infection was identified in the juice

of the tomato.

A management strategy needs to be developed to control the spread of the virus.

Project Title: Influence of plant density on yield of a new tomato variety - Alafua Winner

This trial was conducted to determine the plant spacing that would give maximum yield. The data

showed that there was no significant difference between the control and any other treatment. Since

a lower plant density gave a similar yield to the control, the use of this plant density would result in

lower production cost.

Project Title: Determination of the most appropriate potting mixture and soil treatment for seed

germination, seedling growth and fungal growth.

Seven potting mixtures and six soil treatments were evaluated. The data indicated that best results

were obtained from the potting mixture with the composition of four parts compost, two parts cattle

manure, one part soil and one part sand. The most suitable soil treatment was when the potting

mixture was treated with the fungicide Banrot one week prior to sowing of seed.

- 28 -

Project Title: The effect of nitrogen fertilizer on yield of cabbage

Four levels of nitrogen fertilizer were used on cabbage to determine the appropriate level that would

maximize yield on Onverwagt clay soil. The results showed that the nitrogen level of 120 kg/ha

was the most suitable level for cabbage production on Onverwagt clay.

Project Title: The effect of potassium fertilizer on the yield of cabbage

Four levels of potassium fertilizer were evaluated. The yield when potassium was applied was

significantly higher than yield when no potassium was applied. There was, however, no significant

difference between the yield at 80 kg/ha potassium and the yield at either of the higher levels.

Project Title: The influence of organic and inorganic nitrogen fertilizer on yield of cauliflower.

One level of inorganic nitrogen fertilizer and three organic fertilizers were compared with a control

(no fertilizer). The yield from the use of the inorganic fertilizer was higher than that of the control

and each of the organic fertilizers. It was observed, however, that the organic fertilizers produced

fruit of better quality (longer shelf life and better cooking quality).

Project Title: Sheltered Cultivation

Cauliflower seedlings (variety Farmers Extra Early) were transplanted four - five weeks after

sowing into seedbeds. There was some incidence of apparent black rot. Flowering commenced 40

days after transplanting (dat). One hundred and fifty-five heads (75%) weighing 20.4 kg were

harvested; 17 heads (8%) were stolen over one weekend. Mean weight of heads was 131g while the

largest head weighed 258g. There was a one-day flood of the crop that prompted the premature

harvest of 70 heads; subsequent harvests were made which gave the apparent indication that the

period of flood did not greatly affect production.

Broccoli was also cultivated under the shelter but complete harvesting was not achieved mainly

because of heavy “stem borer” infestation and wilting symptoms. First harvest occurred 58 dat with

- 29 -

the crop being terminated 14 days after the first harvest. Twenty-four heads were harvested

weighing 1594g; the mean head weight was 66g.

3. SEED PRODUCTION

Seed was produced of selected vegetables to ensure that quality seed of locally adapted varieties

reach farmers. The department produced 2,760g ochro, 16.7 kg bora, 202g tomato and 1.7 kg

boulanger seed.

4. INFORMATION DISSEMINATION

Fact sheets were prepared for tomato, boulanger, cabbage, ochro, sweet potato and pepper.

Production manuals were prepared for tomato, sweet potato and chives.

TRIALS IN PROGRESS AT THE END OF 2003

1. Evaluation of boulanger varieties.

2. Varietal observation of cowpea varieties.

2. DEPARTMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY, PLANT GENETIC RESOURCES

AND CROP PROTECTION

Head of Department: Dr. Patrick Chesney

Project Officers: Mr. Cleveland Paul

Ms. Kaye McAllister

Mr. Evan Willabus

Ms. Charissa Wilson ♣

♣ Joined staff on 1st October 2003.

- 30 -

Project Technicians: Mr. Ramphal Mohabir

Ms. Amanda Connell-Chester

Ms. Shelley Dennis

Ms. Loyce Ifill

Ms. Sharon Nicholson

Ms. Natalie Miller-Bressette

Ms. Noellie Moses

Non-technical Staff: Ms. Sheila Kellman

Ms. Sarjudai Singh

Ms. Lorraine Gordon

Ms. Lovern Benjamin

INTRODUCTION

The objectives of the Department of Biotechnology, Plant Genetic Resources and Crop Protection,

created in 2003, are as follows:

1. to acquire, conserve, characterise, evaluate, multiply and document selected crop

germplasm, and

2. to generate information for improved management of crop pests and diseases.

During 2003, research projects were conducted in the areas of biotechnology, plant genetic

resources and crop protection.

1. BIOTECHNOLOGY (Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory)

Project Title: Ex-situ characterisation, conservation, and multiplication of selected crop

germplasm

Objectives:

1. to make available to researchers and for sale farmers 2500 disease-free plantain and

pineapple plants each;

2. to maintain in in-vitro storage, four important food crops for crop improvement and for

safety duplication.

- 31 -

Micropropagation

In 2003, some 8,434 plantain var. Creole and pineapple var. Montserrat plants were

micropropagated exceeding the target set and in the process marking the highest annual plant

production since 1992, when some 16,341 plants were produced. Then, sweet potato, cassava,

plantain and pineapple were micropropagated. Multiplication of sweet potato and cassava was

discontinued in 1995. In 2003, about twice as many plantain than pineapple plants were produced

owing to a higher demand for the former. Demand for plants in 2003 was not met. All plants

produced were weaned from cultures initiated in 2002. Explants were initiated in 2003.

The absence of plantain var. Creole and pineapple var. Montserrat germplasm collections at NARI

necessitated collection of explants from farmers’ fields at Salem, East Bank Essequibo. This area is

considered to be relatively free of pineapple and plantain diseases of quarantine importance.

Pineapple mother plants were selected using strict selection criteria. During logistical problems,

mother plants of plantain were not selected to strict criteria; the source farmer provided material

based on descriptions provided. All explants were subjected to health tests at NARI before excision

of growing point for in-vitro initiation. These cultures will yield plants for sale in 2004.

Given the internal quarantine restriction on the movement of Musa spp. as well as an increase in

market opportunities for plantain in the Caribbean region, an increase in the demand for

micropropagated plantain in 2004 is anticipated. In 2003, there were requests for large numbers of

both plantain and pineapple plants for supply immediately on demand or within one month. To meet

an increasing demand for micropropagated plants the Laboratory is working towards:

an immediate improvement in the reliability of supply of controlled atmosphere in the

culture rooms and,

a new supply of all chemicals used in formulation of media and plant nutrient solution.

In vitro conservation

A total of 19 accessions of germplasm of cassava, sweet potato, yam and pineapple was conserved

in vitro on reduced growth media which were refined in 2002 to provide storage for a period of six

months. A list of all accessions maintained in the in-vitro collection is presented in Table 1. These

accessions are maintained for the commodity improvement research programmes of NARI.

- 32 -

Changes to the 2002 list of accessions during 2003 include losses of four cassava accessions, two

sweet potato accessions (John Thomas Dundee, Wild Potato), one yam accession (Bell); transfer to

multiplication media of one sweet potato accession (Vanilla) and addition of two cassava accessions

(3 months, Uncle Mac) to the collection.

Table 1. Accessions held in the in-vitro active genebank, Mon Repos, 2003.

CROP ACCESSION NAME

Sweet Potato (n=15)

Jamaica #1, Warruni White Stem, Rodrigues, Black Rock, Korean #1,

English Potato, Orlando #1, Black potato, Springer, Iarena, Strong man,

White Stem, Viola, Maputa, Tapato

Yam (n=2) Costa Rica, Long Yam

Cassava (n=2) 3 Months, Uncle Mac

Pineapple (n=2) Montserrat, Perola

In November 2003, four Moko (Ralstonia solanacearum) resistant lines of banana in vitro cultures

were received from the International Network for the Improvement of Banana and Plantain

(INIBAP), Belgium for the Department of Agronomy. The Plant Genetic Resources Coordinating

Unit (PGR-CU) is the NARI office responsible for receiving and processing all acquired germplasm

prior to release to the acquiring party. As part of the process, the following lines of banana were

placed on suitable multiplication media after a health test in the Plant Pathology Laboratory.

The lines were:

ITC.0506 FHIA-03 ITC.1418 FHIA-25

ITC.0504 FHIA-01 ITC.1344 CRBP-39

2. PLANT GENETIC RESOURCES

Project Title: Updating state of plant genetic resources in Guyana

- 33 -

Objective:

To update the Guyana country report on the state of PGR for food and agriculture

The Guyana country report was not updated due to the lack of funds. Contrary to the expectations of

NARI and the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI), the Food and Agriculture

Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) did not provide the funds and relevant training to update

the Guyana report. In Guyana, NARI is the focal point for PGR for food and agriculture.

Project Title: Collaborative research agreements: organising the plant genetic resources (PGR)

management capabilities

Objective:

To pursue with strategic partners joint plant exploration and management of PGR for food and

agriculture in Guyana

Collaborative research agreements drafted between NARI, IPGRI and the United States Department

of Agriculture (USDA) in 2001 for joint food plant exploration in the hinterland regions of Guyana,

as well as the complementary conservation of cassava germplasm in Region 9 were not finalised.

The problem has been identified as the still unresolved issue of access to genetic resources and a

benefit sharing agreement that is agreeable to all concerned parties. There is, however, institutional

realignment towards an imminent resolution. In the latter half of 2003, the Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) convened a sub-committee under the National Biodiversity Advisory

Committee to address the issues of access to genetic resources and benefit sharing. NARI

maintained contact with both IPGRI and USDA to keep alive the idea of collaborative research

agreements. Guyana stands to benefit tremendously from the implementation of these agreements.

Yam and cassava field nurseries were maintained and sweet potato catalogue completed.

Project Title: Institutionalising plant genetic resources management in Guyana

In 2003, the long awaited Plant Genetic Resources Coordinating Unit (PGR-CU) was created to:

Manage all NARI’s germplasm collections;

Manage a centralised documentation system (including data analysis);

- 34 -

Supply raw materials for NARI’s other research programmes initially on specific crops

such as tomato, pepper, boulanger, bora, sweet potato, yam, cassava, West Indian

cherry, avocado, mango, coconut, pineapple and passion fruit.

Spearhead the establishment of a country-wide system for plant genetic resource

management; NARI is the national focal point for PGR management for food and

agriculture.

Formation of the PGR-CU fulfils the principal recommendation of the USDA/IPGRI Scientific

Mission to Guyana in 2001 to assist in the development of Guyana’s capability to manage its PGR

for food and agriculture. PGR-CU has started operations and is progressing well. The importance of

managing PGR for food and agriculture cannot be over-emphasised. The thrust of the NARI

medium-term SRDA establishes a market oriented approach to research. This thrust requires that a

systematic crop breeding programme is set up to improve the quality of crops in Guyana given the

wide genetic variability present in several crop species in the various growing environments. Such a

programme is best placed within a plant genetic resources system to manage germplasm in an

integrated way for the particular end use, value added, export oriented production.

3. CROP PROTECTION

Project Title: Information for improved management of crop pests and diseases

Insect pest, disease and weed reference services

The Crop Protection Service processed about 500 plant disease samples submitted by or on behalf

of mostly non-traditional crop farmers; some rice disease specimens were also processed. Most of

the samples originated from farms on the Coastal Plains. The most demanding period for processing

of disease samples in 2003 was May-July, which coincides with the main rainy and cropping season

in Guyana (Figure 1).

- 35 -

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

200

Janu

ary

Februa

ryMarc

hApri

lMay

June Ju

ly

Augus

t

Septem

ber

Octobe

r

Novem

ber

Decem

ber

Month

Tota

l num

ber o

f sam

ples

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

Figure 1. Distribution of plant disease samples submitted to NARI Plant Pathology Laboratory for

the period 1996-2003

The least number of samples was processed in December. Omitting data for 2003, which showed

heightened laboratory activity, and for the month of December, a relatively steady number of

samples was processed monthly. Analysis of data for the period 1996-2003 revealed that 42

different diseases/pathogens were identified from 55 crop plant disease specimens (Table 2).

- 36 -

Table 2. Organisms isolated from crop plant disease specimens submitted to NARI Plant Pathology Laboratory in 2003. Disease Pathogen Crops mostly affected Alternaria leaf spot Alternaria spp. Tomato Anthracnose Colletotrichum spp. Pepper, bora Ashy stem blight Macrophomina spp. Bora Aspergillus blight Aspergillus spp. Peanut Bacterial wilt Rolstonia solanacearum Tomato Black rot Xanthomonas campestris Cabbage Blossom end rot Physiological disease Tomato Brown eye spot Cercospora spp. Rice Cercospora leaf spot Cercospora spp. Celery Collar rot Sclerotium rolfsii Pepper Curvularia leaf spot Curvularia spp. Rice, celery Dry root rot Macrophomina phaseolina Peanut Early blight Alternaria solani Toamto Fruit rot Phomopsis vexans Boulanger, tomato Fusarium wilt Fusarium spp. Pepper, boulanger, tomato Greasy spot Mycospharella horri Citrus Heart rot Erwinia spp. Cabbage, pak choi Helminthosporium leaf spot Helminthosporium spp. Rice Internal brown spot Pineapple Moko disease Rolstonia solanacearum Plantain, banana Mosaic virus Virus Bora Nigrospora leaf spot Nigrospora spp. Phytophthora rot Phytophthora spp. Boulanger Powdery mildew Leveillula taurica Bora Red spot virus Virus Poi Root knot disease Root knot nematodes Most vegetable crops Rust Erysiphe polygoni Bora Scab Elsinoe fawcetti Citrus Seedling damping off Phythium spp. Most vegetable crops Sigatoka leaf spot Mycospharella musicola Plantain, banana Soft rot Erwinia carotovora Cabbage, pak choi Sooty mould Capnodium spp. Boulanger, mango, citrus Southern blight Sclerotium rolfsii Pepper Target spot Corenespora cassicola Bora Viral infection Viruses Bora, pepper Pestalodeopsii Pineapple Rhizopus rot Rhizopus spp. Boulanger, pepper, tomato Penicillum spp. Postharvest rot Botryodiplodia theobromae Cassava Phoma spp. Pumpkin Choanophora rot Choanophora spp. Squash, pumpkin Verticilium wilt Verticillium spp.

- 37 -

There were 31 fungal pathogens, six bacterial pathogens, three viral cases, one nematode and one

physiological case. Sixteen crops accounted for more than 75% of the samples processed over the

period; 39 crops accounted for the other 25%. The more commonly occurring crop plant disease

samples came from tomato, pepper, Musa spp., citrus, boulanger and bora which together accounted

for approximately 50% of the crop samples processed (Figure 2).

Avocado2%

Bora5%

Boulanger6%

Cabbage3%

Cassava2%

Celery4%

Citrus6%

Cucumber2%

Musa spp.11%

Pak choi3%

Papaw2%

Pepper9% Pineapple

3%Poi3%

Rice3%

Tomato11%

Others24%

Figure 2. Distribution of crop types analysed for diseases at NARI Plant Pathology Laboratory.

A small number of insect pests (fruit fly, pink mealy bug) and weeds was processed for

identification (data not presented). The insect pest, disease and weed reference service, offered free

of cost, is an important service to farmers and researchers as it assists in the formulation of

appropriate management strategies for effective pest management. This service was assisted with

the compiling of species lists of weeds (50 families), insects (6 orders; 1111 species) and fungi in

the NARI collections.

- 38 -

Pest management field guide

A manuscript on identification and management of common insect pests, diseases and weeds of

Solanaceous crops in Guyana was prepared. As seen from data presented above, tomato, pepper and

boulanger, members of the plant family Solanaceae, ranked high on the list of crop plants processed

for diseases. As such, this manual, when completed, will serve as an important reference guide to

farmers, researchers and extension agents.

Pest management training

Early in the year, the Crop Protection Service trained two research staff from the Guyana Rice

Development Board (GRDB) in general laboratory techniques for plant disease diagnosis. With this

training, the GRDB acquired the capability to monitor pest problems affecting rice, an important

agricultural commodity of Guyana. The 3% of samples processed by the NARI Plant Pathology

Laboratory will now be handled by GRDB once they can operationalise their own plant protection

service.

The Crop Protection Service trained 20 Technicians in modern pest management techniques as part

of its ongoing programme to provide quality training to pest management practitioners. For the first

time at NARI, the course manual was packaged in CD ROM format for distribution to participants

and for sale to the general public. Pest management practitioners trained by NARI service were

drawn from the entire farming community in Guyana including the traditional (rice, sugar) and non-

traditional (other crops) sub-sectors.

4. PLANT TISSUE CULTURE & CROP PROTECTION

Project Title: Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Just over 3000 packets of bait for the control of the Acoushi ants (leaf cutting ants) were produced.

To date, more than 50% have been sold mainly to the hinterland farming communities where the

Acoushi ant is the major threat to food security.

- 39 -

The national organic production drive received a boost with the commencement of research on

plants with biopesticidal properties that could be used for the control of pest problems in organic

farming. Some 14 native plant species were established in field and laboratory. Laboratory testing

scheduled to commence during the second half of 2003 did not materialise and will now be carried

out in 2004. The results of this research will offer safe alternatives to chemical pest control and also,

extend the scope of organic farming in Guyana.

Literature Cited

George, E.F. (1996) Plant Propagation by Tissue Culture. Part 2. In Practice. Exergetics

Ltd., Great Britain.

4. HORTICULTURE DEPARTMENT

SECTION A. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

ABSTRACTS OF COMPLETED RESEARCH PROJECTS

Yield response of mature West Indian Cherry (Malpighia punicifolia) grown on heavy clay

soils to various levels of NPK fertilizers

Pratima Doodnauth1 and V. Ho-a-Shu2

This trial was conducted to determine the optimal levels of NPK fertilizers that would result in

increases in yield and quality of cherry juice from cherry grown on the clay soils of Guyana. Three

levels of Nitrogen (0, 37 and 75 kg/ha) and Potassium (0, 75 and 150 kg/ha) and two levels of

Phosphate fertilizer (0 and 75 kg/ha) were incorporated into the soil twice annually, just prior to the

rainy season. Urea was used as the source of N, Muriate of Potash as the source of K and Triple

1 Research Assistant, Hort., NARI 2 Head, Horticulture, NAI

- 40 -

Super Phosphate (TSP) as the source of P. Yield data, Brix, pH, and Total Titratable Acids were the

parameters measured. Based on yield data, the best treatment contained 37 kg/ha N and 75 kg/ha K

producing a total yield of 4.5 tons/ha/annum, followed by the treatment, which contained 75 kg/ha

of both N and P and 150 kg/ha K that produced a total yield of 3.8 tons/ha/annum. The third best

treatment contained 37 kg/ha N and 150 kg/ha K, which gave a yield equivalent to 3.7

tons/ha/annum. Further, fertilizer had no effect on the Brix, pH and TTA.

Breaking Dormancy in Golden Apple Seeds (Spondias cytherea. Sonn)

Sabrina Singh3, Karan Singh1 and V. Ho-a-Shu2

Observations showed that Golden Apple seeds took a long time to germinate often resulting in the

seeds rotting before germination. An experiment was thus conducted to determine whether

dormancy breaking treatments of mechanical scarification, dry heat, hot water, gibberellic acid with

and without scarification, and leaching could effectively break dormancy of dwarf and regular

Golden Apple seeds. Observations on the germination of seedlings in each treatment were made

every two days and continued for 85 days after treatment. Of all the treatments, the dry heat

treatment was successful in breaking dormancy in the dwarf the golden apple seeds resulting in

enhanced germination of seed. None of the treatments appeared to have any effect on the regular

golden apple seeds suggesting that there is no dormancy in the regular golden apple seeds.

Evaluation of Organic Plant Extracts to Control Anthracnose in Carica papaya

Elizabeth Bhola3, Karan Singh1 and V. Ho-a-Shu

Extracts of Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Tulsie (Ocimum cacumlin), Vetiver (Vetiveria

zizaniodes) and Sijan (Moringa oleifera) were compared with the synthetic fungicide, Mertect for

their fungicidal activity against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides on papaya fruits. Five parameters

were used to evaluate the effectiveness of these plant extracts: percentage of infection, number of

infected sites, rate of infection, brix and shelf life. Results showed that all plant extracts exhibited

3 Final Year Student U.G. 1 Research Assistant, Horticulture, NARI

- 41 -

varying levels of control of papaya anthracnose. Mertect, Sijan and Eucalyptus were not

significantly different in their ability to control the percentage of infection, number of infected sites,

rate of infection and shelf life. These treatments were the most effective in controlling papaya

anthracnose. It was also found that Vetiver and Tulsie were not significantly different in their ability

to control papaya anthracnose. However, these extracts were not as effective as Eucalyptus and

Sijan. Fruits treated with Mertect, Sijan and Eucalyptus resulted in longer shelf life, however fruits

treated with Eucalyptus resulted in a lower brix. Based on these results it was found that Sijan and

Eucalyptus are good alternatives to the synthetic fungicide, Mertect.

The testing of imported hybrid and local varieties of papaya (Carica papaya) for resistance to

Papaya Ring Spot Virus (PRSV-P)

Nishal Ramnarine3, K. Singh and V. Ho-a-Shu

Papaya Ring Spot Virus (PRSV-P) is the most important disease of papaya (Carica papaya)

worldwide. It is a micro parasite that is transmitted by an insect vector from host to host. PRSV-P

was never recognised in Guyana until the introduction of hybrid varieties of papaya around 1998

and the first PRSV-P outbreak was subsequently observed in 2002. As a consequence of the

susceptibility of these hybrid varieties, focus is now being placed on local varieties with

resistance/tolerance to the PRSV-P. In this experiment local and hybrid varieties of papaya were

inoculated with PRSV-P and later tested for the presence of the virus using Double Antibody

Sandwich Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (DAS ELISA). It was found that all the varieties

tested, with the exception of one local variety from the Charity area, were infected with the virus.

2. ONGOING PROJECTS

Project Title: The establishment of germplasm collection blocks and pilot orchards of various fruit

cultivars, both foreign and local, at various locations in the country.

3 Final Year Student, U.G

- 42 -

Status

This is an ongoing project and maintenance of both local and foreign varieties (mainly from Brazil)

continued in plots located at Benab, Fort Wellington, Kairuni, Mon Repos and Timehri. New

selections were added as they became available. Towards the end of 2003 preparations were made

for the planting of some Rambutan selections at Mon Repos.

For the first time in Guyana, the introduced CTV tolerant, Cleopatra Mandarin rootstock plants,

bore fruit at Timehri. The other introduced CTV tolerant Volkameriana rootstock plants, that started

fruiting in 2000, continued to fruit at Kairuni, Mon Repos and Timehri.

Project Title: The production of CTV free plants from clean parent material.

Status

This project is ongoing and required the following steps:

a) The introduction of suitable CTV resistant/tolerant rootstock material.

With the exception of Rough Lemon and some Rangpur Lime, Guyana possessed no other

CTV resistant rootstock material. Commencing in 1998 therefore, the introduction of

suitable CTV resistant rootstock material comprising Carrizo Citrange, Cleopatra Mandarin,

Swingle Citrumelo and Volkameriana Lemon was achieved by the importation of certified

seed from Trinidad, then California, USA and finally from the Agricultural Research

Council in South Africa in 2000 and 2001.

b) The introduction of suitable CTV Free Budwood material.

Commencing in 1998, this was achieved by the importation of certified budwood of known

commercial varieties from Trinidad, then California, USA. The importation of budwood

ceased in 1999.

- 43 -

c) The establishment of “mother plants” of CTV resistant/tolerant rootstock at various

locations.

This is necessary to provide a local source of CTV resistant rootstock seed material,

avoiding future importation. The establishment of these seedlings commenced in 1998/99

and continued into 2002, primarily at Mon Repos, Timehri and Kairuni.

The Volkameriana Lemon commenced fruiting at Timehri in 2000, while fruiting at Mon

Repos and Kairuni commenced in 2002. Also fruiting of the Cleopatra Mandarin

commenced at Timehri during 2002.

d) The budding of CTV Free Budwood on suitable Rootstock material.

This commenced in 1998 with the originally imported budwood material and then continued

over the years with material generated from the original introductions.

e) The preservation of Selected Budded CTV Free Plants in Screened Houses.

Avoiding continuous importation of CTV free budwood, requires the establishment of a

local source of CTV free mother plants which could be used to establish and/or re-supply

plants as they become infected in the multiplication blocks.

However, Tristeza disease is transmitted by several species of aphids present in Guyana.

Consequently, to assist in keeping plants CTV free for as long a time as possible, it is

necessary to protect the plants from aphid attack by growing them in a suitable facility

screened to exclude insects.

Appropriate CTV free plants were therefore selected as “mother plants” in 1998 and kept in

a temporary screened facility in the plant nursery area until 2001 when the surviving 20

mother plants were transferred to the new screen house facility.

These plants have now outgrown this facility and to keep these plants for a longer period a

field screen facility is necessary. In this type of facility, contemplated for 2004, the screen is

constructed in the field permitting the plants to grow in the field instead of in large pots.

- 44 -

f) The establishment of selected budded CTV free plants in “multiplication blocks”.

To provide CTV free budwood material, it is necessary to establish a high density planting

of CTV free material as far as possible in isolated blocks, normally referred to as

“multiplication blocks”.

Establishment of multiplication blocks commenced at Mon Repos and Timehri in 1998/99

and is ongoing. To date, some 500 and another 100 plants were established at Mon Repos

and Timehri respectively. Regrettably, the plants at Mon Repos are not progressing as

anticipated with the plants displaying disappointingly slow growth and high mortality.

Several more of these plants were lost at Mon Repos with the floods in late December.

Furthermore, these multiplication blocks are now heavily infected with Tristeza and are to

be replanted when new sites are identified.

g) Routine serological testing of plants in the screen house and multiplication blocks for

CTV.

This is a procedure called DTBIA4 requiring special antibody chemicals and was not set up

at NARI requiring samples for testing to be sent abroad, mainly Trinidad. After a somewhat

lengthy consultation and review, the correct antibody for the DTBIA was sourced and the

DTBIA procedure was successfully conducted at NARI during the year. By the use of

duplicate samples, the results were verified by analysis in Trinidad.

h) Production of CTV free budded plants on resistant rootstocks to establish germplasm

orchards.

This started in 1999 with the establishment of germplasm plots at Mon Repos, Timehri and

Kairuni and is ongoing with the supplying of appropriate plants as they become available.

i) Production of CTV Free budded plants on resistant rootstocks for general use.

Only a limited amount was achieved as the emphasis was on the establishment of the

germplasm blocks at Mon Repos and Kairuni.

4 Direct Tissue Blot Immunoassay

- 45 -

Project Title: The evaluation of baited flytraps for the control of fruit fly (Anastrepha sp.) in guava

(Psidium guajava).

The objectives of this trial were to evaluate the degree of fruit fly control achieved by the use of

baited McPhail type flytraps and to monitor and identify the fruit fly population in guava by

trapping.

It was conducted at the Kairuni Horticultural Station.

During the period of trapping from September 2002 to September 2003, two species of fruit flies

were recorded: Anastrepha striata and Anastrepha serpentin, with the latter being more

predominant that the other. A total of 408 A. serpentin flies were trapped compared to 148 of A.

striata.

The number of flies trapped peaked during the months when fruit were present, however, some flies

were still trapped during the months when no fruits were in season. Additionally, rainfall did not

appear to have any direct impact on fruiting or the amount of flies trapped.

Over the duration of the experiment, there has been a decrease in the number of flies caught. From

the period of September to December 2002, a total of 360 flies was caught as compared to 57 during

the period of July to December 2003. During both of these periods the fruiting was at its highest.

The average damage score for the fruits collected during the first month of the exercise was 2.7 and

the score for the last month was 1.2. Therefore, there was a reduction in the number of larvae found

in the fruits.

In order to assess other means of controlling the guava fruit fly, one plot was sprayed with Neem

insecticide whereas the other half was not. The average damage score figures for the fruits in this

area were similar to those in other areas where traps were present, as such it appears that either

trapping or spraying the ground with an insecticide was equally effective. However, this trial was

only conducted on few guava trees and over a limited time frame and needs to be repeated on a

much larger scale for a longer period of time, for a more definite recommendation to be made.

- 46 -

Whether baited traps could effectively control the fruit fly in guava remain undetermined and a

repeat trial with many more trees over a longer period is recommended.

Project Title: Influence of organic and inorganic fertilisers on growth and yield responses to two

varieties of grafted mango. (Mangifera indica)

This project, located at Field 30, NARI, Mon Repos commenced late in 2002 and is continuing.

Data collected so far showed that after field planting, Julie mango produced the first flush of

flowers at eight-nine months, while Spice mango produced flowers at 15-16 months. Indications are

that in both mango types, the trees are restricted to two flushes per year, coinciding with production

of new leaves and flowers. None of the treatments used seemed to have produced any difference on

plant growth so far, but the controls are shorter than all treated plants.

Project Title: Yield response of six papaya (Carica papaya) varieties to four levels of nitrogen

fertilizer at three locations.

This project, located at NARI, Mon Repos, and St. Lawrence and Naamryck, East Bank Essequibo

commenced during the year and is continuing using the hybrid papaya varieties Known You, Red

Lady, Sunrise, Tainung 1, Tainung 2 as well as a local selection from Charity, Pomeroon

From the data so far collected from the fields, indications are that the highest rate of 248 Kg N/ ha

every three months produced the most vigorous plants in all varieties used. The plants of all

varieties treated at this rate, flowered earlier, retained more flowers on the plants and produced

more fruits per flush when compared with the other treatments.

The plants in the untreated control plots displayed stunted growth, chlorotic appearance and in some

cases eventually death. It should also be noted that the local Charity cultivars used produced over

50 per cent male trees.

- 47 -

Project Title: Timing of nitrogen fertilizer application on yield and growth of six varieties of

papaya (carica papaya) at two locations.

This project, located at NARI, Mon Repos, and St. Lawrence, East Bank Essequibo, commenced

during the year and is continuing using the hybrid papaya varieties Known You, Red Lady, Sunrise,

Tainung 1, Tainung 2 as well as a local selection from Charity, Pomeroon. A rate of 390 kg N/yr/ha

is being applied after flowering at two, four, and six weekly intervals.

From the data so far collected from the fields, indications are that none of the varieties showed any

difference in growth in response to any of the treatments. The plants in the no treatment control,

however, were stunted and chlorotic.

Project Title: Response of three passion fruit (Passiflora sp) cultivars to four levels of nitrogen.

The aim of this study was to determine the optimal level of nitrogen for the best growth and yield in

passion fruit. The trial is located at Hague, West Coast Demerara. It commenced during 2002 and

is continuing using the Brazilian Yellow, Local Yellow and Local Pink passion fruit cultivars. From

the data collected so far, indications are that flowering is continuous whenever there is steady

irrigation. The treatment with the highest rate of 285 kg N/ha/yr, regardless of cultivar, produced

more vigorous plants carrying more fruits with the unit weight of these fruits being greater than

those from the other treatments. Further indications are that the control treatment showed more

flower drop and poor fruit set.

Project Title: Timing of Nitrogen application on yield and growth of two cultivars of passion fruit

(Passiflora sp.).

This project, located at Naamryck, East Coast Essequibo commenced during the year and is

continuing using the Brazilian Yellow and Local Yellow passion fruit cultivars. A rate of 190 kg

N/yr/ha is being applied after flowering at two, four, and six weekly intervals.

- 48 -

From the data collected so far indications are that all the plants from all the treatments are

performing better than the control, but no difference is being shown between treatments.

Project Title: A comparative study between the yield of pruning and non-pruning of three cultivars

of Passion Fruit, (Passiflora sp.).

This trial, located at the Kairuni Horticultural Station, commenced late in 2001 and is continuing.

From the data collected so far, irrespective of cultivar there is no difference in yield between the

pruned and unpruned passion fruit, growing in the sandy soil.

Project Title: Observation of the growth and yield of Montserrat and Smooth Cayenne varieties of

Pineapple.

Objectives

To compare the growth, yield and main agronomic features of the two mentioned varieties of

pineapple.

Some 61 plants of both varieties, generated from tissue culture plantlets, were established at Kairuni

late in 2002. Eighteen plants of each variety were marked and so far growth records of plant height,

number of leaves and leaf length have been taken. From this data, there is no indication of any

difference in growth of the two varieties.

OTHER PROJECTS IN PROGRESS DURING 2003

(1) Influence of organic and inorganic fertilizer on growth and yield response of

three varieties of papaya on pegasse soil.

(2) Yield potential of three passion fruit cultivars.

(3) The selection and propagation of two phenotypes of Montserrat variety of

pineapple.

- 49 -

SECTION B. PRODUCTION

3. PLANT NURSERIES

Project Title: Plant Nursery Operations

Objective

To propagate quality plants at the various plant nurseries.

Achievements

General

Routine work continued at all Plant Nurseries. Under the Poor Rural Communities Support

Services Programme (PRCSSP), the construction of a new office commenced at the Charity Plant

Nursery. At the Pouderoyen Plant Nursery under the same PRCSSP, work also commenced on a

new plant and soil shed.

Production:

Details of the production at the plant nurseries are presented in an overall summary (Table 3).

There was just over 5 % increase in the overall production in 2003 with 171,355 plants as compared

to 162,801 in 2002. However, in actual plant sales, there was an increase of over 80% where

91,333 plants were sold this year as compared to 48,827 in 2002. This was attributed to an

unprecedented large number of plants being sold to an enterprise in the Intermediate Savannahs.

- 50 -

Table 3: Plant Nurseries – Plant Production for Years 2002 and 2003

2002

2003

PLANT

NURSERY PLANT TYPE Total Production

Sales

Stock

Total Production

Bartica

Citrus Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit TOTAL

3,259289

733621

2921313

318

1,705 262

71 2,038

1,997275

842,356

Benab

Citrus Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit TOTAL

6,41966

1,1877,672

4,703108655

5,466

4,209 494 356

5,059

8,912602

1,01110,525

Charity Citrus Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit Ornamentals, Others TOTAL

17,4831,9522,315

24921,999

10,481908

2,216215

13,820

3,549 679

2,582 130

6,940

14,0301,5874,798

34520,760

Hosororo Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit Cocoa Ornamentals, Others TOTAL

26710

14,327693

15,297

1,372 2

11,430 350

13,154

1,3722

11,430350

13,154Mon Repos Citrus

Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit Ornamentals, Others TOTAL

27,8556,545

10,8722,936

48,208

14,8885,0198,392

65028,949

21,830 5,479 4,640 1,451

33,400

36,71810,49813,032

2,10162,349

Pouderoyen Citrus Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit Ornamentals, Others Vegetables TOTAL

13,2572,9101,294

507410

18,378

7,5162,4801,797

4320

12,225

1,054 1,007 1,239

587 0

3,887

8,5703,4873,0361,019

016,112

St. Ignatius Citrus Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit TOTAL

423

2671

1,687 21

150 1,858

1,72924

1761,929

Timehri Citrus Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit Ornamentals, Others TOTAL

30,7403,814

11,8191,253

47,626

20,9242,4696,649

44230,484

9,804 1,663 1,396

823 13,686

30,7284,1328,0451,265

44,170 TOTAL

Citrus Avocado, Mango, Cherry Other Fruit Cocoa Ornamentals, Others Vegetables TOTAL

99,01315,84327,57014,327

5,638410

162,391

58,84611,00019,748

01739

091,333

43,838 10,977 10,436 11,430

3,341 0

80,022

102,68421,97730,18411,430

5,0800

171,355

- 51 -

SECTION C. MISCELLANEOUS

4. VISITORS

4.1. Malaysian Rambutan Expert

Through the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme and facilitated by the Guyana Ministry

of Foreign Trade and International Economic Co-operation, Mr. Tan Hoe Hing, Assistant Director

from the Fruit Division, Department of Agriculture in Malaysia visited Guyana from July 30 to

August 5, 2003 to advise on the development of the Rambutan industry in Guyana.

Mr. Tan Hoe Hing was able to bring with him seeds and scion material of improved varieties

recommended for commercial propagation in Malaysia. The seed material was sown at the Mon

Repos Plant Nursery to be used as rootstock plants, while the scion material was used by Mr. Tan

Hoe Hing in a demonstration of patch budding, commonly used in Malaysia for Rambutan budding.

Unfortunately the budding was not successful.

During his stay in Guyana, Mr. Tan Hoe Hing was able to visit some farms growing Rambutan at

Hauraruni, Timehri and the Canal No. 1 Polder area. Additionally, to further acquaint himself with

local conditions and agricultural commodities, visits were made to NARI's Horticultural Station at

Kairuni, the Plant Nurseries at Mon Repos and Timehri, the Sophia Packing House and to the local

markets at Bourda and Parika.

Apart from visiting farms and making on site recommendations, Mr. Hing also made two lecture

presentations on the growing of Rambutan at the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) to

potential growers, NARI personnel and other interested parties.

Arising out of this visit, which stimulated much interest by growers, the Institute hopes to obtain,

from Malaysia, a supply of planting material of improved varieties.

- 52 -

5. LIVESTOCK DEPARTMENT

Head of Department: Mr. R. N. Cumberbatch

Project Officers: Dr. R. Austin

Mr. J. F. Q. Solomon

Farm Supervisor: Mr. J. Gonsalves

INTRODUCTION

The Livestock Department was hindered by a number of problems during the reporting year. In

addition to the drastic decline in duck production caused mainly by a marked reduction in the

number of eggs collected, there was a marked reduction in the availability of pastures as a result of

the extended dry conditions experienced during the reporting year. Coupled with the fact that the

sheep pastures are overstocked, the dry conditions only served to highlight the extent of the poor

management practice currently employed in this programme.

The Livestock Farm activities remained the main focal point of the Livestock department of the

National Agricultural Research Institute. In 2003, these activities included duck breeding, duckling

production, sheep breeding and forage production. These projects were designed mainly to provide

services to the farming community and by so doing provide quality breeding animals. In spite of the

numerous problems experienced, the department was able to provide in excess of 12,000 ducklings

and 93 breeding rams to the farming community. The department also generated G$3.4M in

revenue during the reporting year.

The forage production programme successfully maintained the forage germplasm collection, which

was established and also expanded its collection.

The transfer of technology was another important aspect of the Livestock Department, apart from

officers of the Department making farm visits, establishing duck production facilities in Regions 2

- 53 -

and 3 and assisting in improving the management systems of pastures, the Livestock Farm was

used as a teaching laboratory by various groups which included both farmers and students.

The Duck Unit

The highlights of the duck programme was the acquisition of 395 (315 females and 80 males)

parent stock Peking breed ducklings to augment the department’s breeding project. The introduction

of the new bloodline would assist the programme in meeting the high demand for ducklings from

the farming community. In addition the Department successfully developed two breed types of

Muscovy ducks, the NARI SOLO WHITE MUSCOVY and the ROBIN BLUE NARI MUSCOVY.

The problem pertaining to low levels of egg production, reported in the highlights of 2002,

continued to plague the duck programme, and as a consequence there was a reduction in the number

of ducklings sold and a corresponding reduction in revenue.

The importation of the new batch of parent flock ducklings from the United States of America,

would ensure that the Department returns to full production in the coming year.

In spite of the limited number of ducklings hatched, however, the Department was able to introduce

duck rearing and production to the Amerindian communities of Region 2. The benefits of this

outreach programme were as follows:

Empowering the women of the villages/farming communities.

Improvement of the diet and nutrition of the communities.

Alternative farming activities and additional means of earning a livelihood in the

Amerindian communities.

Increased income to the farming family.

Breed Development

The development of two new strains of Muscovy ducks, THE NARI SOLO WHITE MUSCOVY

and the ROBIN BLUE NARI MUSCOVY ensured that the livestock department continued its

tradition of ensuring that the farming community is continually provided with improved technology

and products from the Institute. A synopsis of the growth characteristics and descriptors of the

NARI SOLO WHITE MUSCOVY are as follows.

- 54 -

GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS OF NARI SOLO WHITE MUSCOVY

ADULT DRAKE 3.4 kg (112 DAYS) YOUNG DRAKE 2.3 kg (56 DAYS)

ADULT HEN 2.1 kg (112 DAYS) YOUNG HEN 1.4 kg (56 DAYS)

CARCASS PERCENTAGES:

DRAKE 75.1% HEN 77.0%

FEED CONVERSION:

DRAKE 2.3 kg feed/ kg live weight. HEN 2.6 kg feed/ kg live weight.

The duck attains a market weight of 2.3kg for drakes and 1.4 kg for hens at 56 days old on

commercial feeds. The important feature of the NARI SOLO WHITE MUSCOVY is the absence of

the pin feathers after slaughter hence the appearance of a clean bird that does not require “roasting”

to remove the pin feathers prior to cooking.

DESCRIPTOR LIST FOR NARI SOLO WHITE MUSCOVY

PHENOTYPIC CHARACTERISTICS (EXTERNAL FEATURES)

HEAD: Medium in females and large in males, face and side of head covered with caruncles.

NECK: Medium length and arched.

PLUMAGE: Completely white.

BODY: Long and broad in males, females of medium length and width.

CARCASS: Cream in colour similar to that of the broiler chicken.

BREAST: Broad in males and medium in females.

BILL: Medium width, cream to pinkish in colour.

EYES: Medium size, slightly over-arched socket and brown in colour.

WINGS: Fairly long and stout.

BACK: Long and broad in males, females medium length and narrow.

TAIL: Fairly long in both sexes with stiff plumage.

LEGS AND FEET: Lower thighs medium length, stout shanks medium length and small feet, toes

straight, connected by web(number of toes or claws 8)

- 55 -

Data are still being tabulated on the growth and other parameters of the ROBIN BLUE NARI

MUSCOVY, but from the preliminary investigations of the growth and other parameters, they are

as impressive as those of the NARI SOLO WHITE MUSCOVY.

DUCK PRODUCTION PARAMETERS FOR 2003

Table 4 shows monthly egg production. Towards the middle of the latter half of the year, there was

a decline in egg production from the breeding flock, resulting not only in a short fall of hatching

eggs but also in a short fall in duckling production and revenue.

Table 4: Egg Production at the Livestock Farm. Mon Repos, 2003

F1 PARENT STOCK F2

PERIOD Pekin Kunshan Muscovy Pekin Kunshan Muscovy Pekin Kunshan

TOTAL

16 Dec-15 Jan 3086 226 906 - 38 4256

16 Jan-15 Feb 1570 360 742 - 90 2762

16 Feb-15 Mar 1226 360 634 - 104 2324

16 Mar-15 Apr 1712 425 1175 - 88 3400

16 Apr-15 May 1359 287 1538 - 100 3284

16 May-15 Jun 2091 423 2213 - 155 4882

16 Jun-15 Jul 1857 237 1415 - 102 3611

16 Jul-15 Aug 1439 230 1622 - 91 3382

16 Aug-15 Sep 2096 585 1196 - 125 4002

16 Sep-15 Oct 1634 763 1395 - 84 3876

16 Oct-15 Nov 1047 760 1369 143 - 97 3416

16 Nov-15 Dec 1195 873 1430 1038 - 110 4646

16 Dec-15 Jan 767 538 689 726 - 57 2777

TOTAL 21079 6067 16324 1907 - 1241 46616

Duckling sales generated G$ 0.9M as compared to G$2.8 M during the year 2002.

- 56 -

Sheep Production

The sheep production programme has proven to be a rather successful venture. The unit has a flock

of in excess of 300 animals; thereby enabling the programme to satisfy the demands of the farming

community for breeding animals. The programme was able to sell 93 breeding rams, for a total of

$1,228,670.

The sheep programme continued to develop low cost rations and utilized poultry (duck) litter in the

form of a molasses/energy block, as it principal supplemental feed source for the year. This

supplement enabled the weaned flock to average growth rates of in excess of 100g/day. In addition,

because of the prolonged dry period experienced during the year the programme introduced the

feeding of hay to the flock in order to supplement their roughage requirements.

The production parameters continue to be impressive, for example, the average overall mortality

was 15%, the average birth weight of the lambs was 2.7kg, the average weaning weight was 12.1kg

at 90 days, the average selling weight of the male rams was 26 kg at six months of age and the

lambing percentage was in excess of 150%.

At the beginning of the reporting year there were 284 animals the breakdown of which is reported in

Table 5. There were 300 animals at the end of the reporting period. The overall lambing % was

147.

Table 5: Flock size of sheep at the Livestock Farm, Mon Repos, 2003

PARAMETERS

OPENING

STOCK

CLOSING

STOCK

Breeding males 6 6

Breeding females 140 240

Weaned males 31 3

Weaned females 22 23

Male lambs 47 10

Female lambs 38 18

TOTAL 284 300

- 57 -

The highlight of the sheep production programme was the collation of the production parameters

generated on the farm during the period 2000-2003. These parameters are compiled in a research

document entitled. “The production parameters of the Barbados Blackbelly and Crossbred sheep in

a controlled semi-intensive system”.

A synopsis of the parameters is as follows:

The sheep used were the Barbados Black Belly and the Crossbred breed of sheep. All data were

obtained from the comprehensive record keeping systems, at the farm, from January 2000 to July

2003. The production data obtained were superior to those of previous studies conducted in Guyana

and compared favourably to other studies in the Americas and the Caribbean.

The data showed that there were no differences in liveweight gains of the two breed types, when

comparisons were made for sex, at different time intervals. The data also indicated that the age of

animals giving birth was between one and five years. There were no differences in birth weights

among sexes at the different age ranges. No differences were detected, between the two breed

types, in relation to the average daily gains at pre and post-weaning stages. The males, however,

had highter weight gains than the females at both stages of growth. The percentage single births

was significantly higher for the crossbred sheep than for Barbados Black Belly. The Barbados

Blackbelly, however, had a significantly higher percentage of twin births. The percentage single

births was higher for dams between one and three years old but decreased for dams aged three years

to above five years. The frequency of twin births was higher in older dams. The pre-weaning

mortality of lambs was higher than post-weaning mortality.

FORAGE PRODUCTION

The forage production programme continued to strive to provide good quality forage for the animals

by maintaining improved pastures. Despite the prolonged dry period the project maintained its

collection of improved forage species in a germplasm collection on the Livestock Farm. This

collection is maintained in order to identify and provide the best forage for the livestock

community. It is also hoped that it could provide an alternative to antelope grass which is being

deemed a nuisance (weed) particularly by persons responsible for maintenance of drainage and

irrigation systems. In addition the forage production project was used as a teaching laboratory for

- 58 -

students of the University of Guyana, the Guyana School of Agriculture and students of Secondary

Schools who were preparing for the Caribbean Examination Council Examination.

The forage project also produced both silage and hay to assist in feeding the stock during the dry

months of the year.

The Livestock Department was also involved in the development of a management strategy for the

grazing of antelope grass. This work was undertaken to assist in the identification of grazing

management systems to be employed for the bull fattening study which will be included in the 2004

programme of work.

The study was conducted at the St. Stanislaus College Farm. It first began on 2002, October 03 and

samples were taken weekly until 2003, February 03. Then the study recommenced in 2003, June 04

and samples were again taken weekly until 2003, October 29. It was concluded that the forage

production, from the pastures on the Farm, is capable of supporting 7 au/ha (annual units/ha)

providing that adequate moisture is available to the pastures. It was observed, however, that in

order for the farm to continuously support such a high stocking rate, it may be necessary that

irrigation be provided during the dry season. Provision of irrigation would ensure an adequate

supply of forage during the dry season. Since there is a difficulty in providing irrigation at present,

it may be necessary to adjust, downwards, the stocking rate of the farm to ensure an adequate

supply of forage throughout the year.

TECHNNOLOGY TRANSFER

The transfer of technology is another important aspect of the Livestock Department’s work. The

methodologies used included the hosting of farmers and students on tours to our facilities, mounting

and displaying various aspects of the Department’s programme of work at National exhibitions. In

addition, the facilities of the Livestock Department were used to train students who were primarily

in the Secondary and Tertiary study programmes.

- 59 -

The Department also disseminated information by preparing information products in both print and

electronic forms on different aspects of Livestock production. The tools used were fact sheets,

scientific, farm journals and newspaper articles and radio and television programmes.

On farm demonstrations were conducted, in Regions 2 and 3, to assist in extending technologies of

good livestock husbandry to those farming communities.

The Department also produced a manuscript entitled “Understanding Pastures”. This document

outlined the three types of pastures found in Guyana. It also provided descriptions (with

photographs) of recommended pasture grasses and legumes. Fertilizer requirements, grazing

management systems and conservation of forage were also dealt with.

5. POST HARVEST AND AGRO-PROCESSING DEPARTMENT

i) Post-harvest fungicidical treatment of fresh cassava tubers

M.S.A. Faroze and B. Dinanauth

Investigations were conducted on the response to fungicide application (Mertect) on fresh cassava

tubers var. Uncle Mac in the control of fungal diseases. Four levels of treatment including rates at 1

ml/l, 2 ml/l, 3 ml/l and a control were used on tubers preceding storage under ambient conditions.

Quality characteristics including vascular discoloration, cooking quality, decay conditions, sap

exudation and shelf life were assessed during storage. Good results were obtained in the 2ml/litre

and 3ml/litre rates of application with tubers storing well up to 18 days. Tubers in the control

suffered deterioration after four days as well as a marked reduction in cooking quality. Sap

exudation, a consumer indication of freshness of tubers was the highest in tubers treated with 2ml/l

and 3ml/l application rates.

- 60 -

ii) Preparation of fruit juice/drinks blends from Pineapple, Carambola and Passion fruit.

Imran Khan and Bridgemohan Denanauth

This project was initiated to determine the most favorable fruit juice mixtures that can be used for

the production of a fruit juice or drink using brix-acid ratio as a mathematical and objective

assessment for the measurement of flavor and taste. For this project, three fruit juices were used

which included pineapple, carambola and passion fruit. The fruit juices were mixed in specific

combinations and the brix- acid ratio for each was calculated. The mixtures were then diluted and

sugar added. The mixtures that received the highest scores in the taste tests were used to identify a

range in the brix- acid values that is most appealing to consumers.

The results of the trial indicated that the fruit juice and drink mixtures with a brix-acid ratio within

the range 39 - 89 and 159 - 178 respectively, received the best approval ratings in organoleptic tests.

Passion fruit/pineapple/carambola received the highest ratings for both juice and drink. Good results

were also obtained for passion fruit/pineapple and pineapple/carambola for juice and drink

respectively.

iii) Evaluation of post harvest treatment applications for the control of anthracnose on

papaya (Carica papaya).

M.S.A. Faroze and B. Denanauth

Three post harvest treatment applications were administered to papaya (Carica papaya) at the color

break stage for the control of anthracnose. The treatments included a double hot water application, a

cold thiabendazole fungicidal dip and a hot water and fungicide combination dip. Infection on fruits

in the control was initiated after four days with the highest severity compared to the fruits from the

other treatments. The combined hot water and fungicide dip was the most successful with fruits

experiencing a shelf life of 14 days and having the lowest severity. There were no changes in brix

and TTA in fruits treated with hot water but a slight increase in brix was observed in untreated fruits

and those treated with the cold fungicidal dip during storage. Ripening and good color development

seemed to be affected by the hot water treatments compared to the control and cold fungicidal dip.

- 61 -

iv) The use of Banana fruit as a base for conversion to value added products

M.S.A. Faroze and B. Denanauth

Local varieties of the banana fruit “apple” and “sweet fig” were assessed for conversion to “banana

flour” and “banana raisin” respectively. The apple variety at the mature green stage showed good

potential for conversion to flour as a raw material for the eventual production of bakery products

such as cakes. The “sweet fig” variety at the ripe, but firm stage displayed excellent characteristics

in the manufacture of banana raisins. The banana flour and banana raisins were used in this trial to

test their suitability as replacements for wheaten flour and imported raisins respectively in the

production of cakes. Organoleptic tests and consumer response indicate strong approval for the

products.

6. SOILS AND WATER MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

Head of Department: Mr. M. Livan

Project Officers: Mr. D Fredericks

Mr. S. Rutherford

Ms. G. Nanku

Research Technicians: Mr. S. Paul

Ms. G. Todd

Support Staff: Myrtle Joseph

1. SOILS AND LAND USE SURVEY

There were two major activities this year. This included routine computerization of existing data on

Soil and land use and the production of User Manual for Arc Info and Arc View.

Achievements this year were constrained by insufficient equipment (computer hardware and

software) and manpower.

- 62 -

Project 1: Computerizing of soil and land use survey reports

Objectives:

1) To have easy access to information on soil and land use

2) To quickly produce tables and maps of interpreted information.

3) To improve the decision-making process

Outputs:

Eight-nine Soil and land use survey reports were targeted for completion. All reports were

rechecked, formatted and compiled on a compact disc (CD).

Twenty-five CDs with the label “Soil Resource Inventories of Guyana 1st Edition 2003. A

compilation of Soil and Land Use Survey Reports for Guyana” were produced. This publication

was put on sale at NARI during the month of October. These CDs provide easy assess of soil

information to users.

Project 2: Production of user manual of Arc Info and Arc View

Objective:

To have standard procedures for digitizing of maps within the department.

Outputs:

ARC Info Manual is 80% completed. This project had been put on hold so as to accommodate a

speedy completion of Project 1.

Project 3: Soil Survey of the Robert V. McRae Establishment, Pearl

Objectives:

1) To conduct a soil investigation and identify the different kinds of soils.

2) To recommend the most appropriate agricultural land use

- 63 -

Status:

Finalisation of the First Draft of this report awaits the analytical results from the Soil Chemistry

Division of Guysuco.

2. SOIL MANAGEMENT

Project Title: Investigating the use of liquid manure in vegetable production.

The objective of this study was to determine the quantity and frequency of application of liquid

manure for economic yield of boulanger. There were four treatments using liquid fertilizer, solid

inorganic fertilizer and combinations of these. There were six harvests. Yield was highest with the

combination of liquid manure and inorganic fertilizer at the highest level. Inorganic fertilizer alone

gave the second highest yield. The lowest yield was obtained when liquid manure alone was used.

Project Title: Evaluating the efficiency of different stains of Rhizobia on nodulation and nitrogen

use by cowpea on clay soil.

This trial aimed to identify the most effective Rhizobia strains for cowpea production on the coastal

clay soils of Guyana. The treatments were four re-juvenated Rhizobia strains which were 612, Tal

420, 624, and 212, the free living strains found in Field 19 of NARI, Mon Repos and Nitrogen at the

rate of 50kg/ha. The data indicated that the highest dry matter content was found in plants

inoculated with Strain # 624. The plants inoculated with this strain also had the greatest number of

pods per plant and the highest yield. The largest number of nodules and the more effective nodules

were found in plants inoculated with Strain # 612. The efficacy of these nodules, however, were

not translated into total dry matter yield since plants inoculated with this strain were among the

lowest in dry matter.

Project Title: The effect of liming on the growth of tomato on a coastal clay soil.

- 64 -

This study sought to determine the effect of limestone application on the growth and yield of

tomato. It also aimed to reduce the incidence of blossom end rot on tomato by increasing the

calcium level in the soil. The treatments involved the application of limestone at different rates and

times and by different methods. Irrigation was also applied at different times. The limestone was

applied in the form of low grade rock phosphate.

The results showed that plants which received limestone at the rates of 4500 kg/ha applied one

month before planting and watered thrice weekly had the highest yield. The lowest yield was

obtained from plants which received 4500 kg/ha incorporated in the soil one month before planting

and watered once per week. The lowest yields were associated with all treatments that involved

incorporation of limestone into the soil or application of limestone immediately before planting.

Incidences of blossom and rot were also observed in these treatments.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

1. A proposal for collaboration between GGMC and NARI was presented to the GGMC

National Conference on Mining in August, 2003.

2. The Department participated in the Caribbean Week of Agriculture, held at the Sophia

Exhibition Centre, from 8th to 12th October 2003. Displays were mounted on:

- Drip irrigation

- Liquid fertilizer

- Soil survey services provided by NARI

- Soil and land use reports on compact disc.

3. Mr. M. Livan, Head of Department, was a resource person for Ministry of Fisheries,

Crops and Livestock/IICA sponsored training courses on “Good Agricultural Practices”

for farmers of Bath, West Coast Berbice and Canal No. 2, West Bank Demerara and

Farm Walks at Cotton Field, West Coast Berbice.

- 65 -

HUMAN RESOURCE REPORT

1. RECRUITMENT OF STAFF

(a) Administration

1) Mr. Haris Umadas - Personnel and Industrial Relations Officer -2003-09-15

(b) Senior Technical

1) Ms. Rajkumarie Sookraj - Research Assistant - 2003-03-03

2) Mr. Imran Khan - Research Assistant - 2003-10-01

3) Ms. Charissa Wilson - Research Assistant - 2003-10-01

4) Mr. Ramdeo Seepaul - Research Assistant - 2001-10-01

5) Mr. Kawal Jainarain - Research Assistant - 2003-10-06

( c) Clerical and Office Support

1) Mr. Wayne Melville - Accounts Clerk 11 -2003-09-15

2) Ms. Kellisa Fanfair - Accounts Clerk 11 -2003-10-01

(d) Semi-Skilled Operatives and Unskilled

1) Mr. Glendon Rodrigues - General Worker- 2003-02-10

2) Mr. Lancelot Hermandez - General Worker- 2003-02-01

3) Mr. Junior Joseph - General Worker- 2003-03-31

4) Mr. Paul Ramsaywack - Security Guard- 2003-04-01

5) Mr. Salim Budhoo - Security Guard- 2003-04-01

6) Mr. Gangaram Raghubir - Security Guard- 2003-04-01

7) Mr. Shahendra Singh - Security Guard- 2003-04-01

8) Mr. Nandesar - Security Guard- 2003-06-01

9) Mr. Andre Watts - Security Guard- 2003-06-01

10) Mr. Harry Ram - Security Guard- 2003-06-01

11) Mr. Satyanand Narayan - Security Guard- 2003-07-02

- 66 -

12) Mr. Goopcharran - Security Guard- 2003-08-01

13) Mr. Frederick E. Daly - Security Guard- 2003-10-20

14) Mr. Deoraj Narine - Security Guard- 2003-11-19

15) Mr. Azad Bacchus - General Worker- 2003-11-24

16) Ms. Rhonda Culley - General Worker- 2003-07-28

17) Ms. Ann Paulino - General Worker- 2003-12-01

18) Ms. Vimla Surdial - General Worker- 2003-11-04

2. PROMOTION

a) Administration

1) Ms. Holda Poonai - Administrative/Finance Manager -2003-09-15

b) Senior Technical

1) Ms. Nathalie Henry - Snr. Library Assistant 2003-01-10

c) Clerical and Office Support

1) Ms. June Andries-Eastman - Confidential Sec. 2003-03-24

d) Semi-Skilled Operatives and Unskilled

1) Mr. Davindra Sawh - Security Guard 2003-09-01

3. RESIGNATION

a) Administration

1) Mr. Zainul Khan - Administrative Manager - 2003-08-04

2) Ms. Diane Britton-George - Personnel and Industrial Relations Officer - 2003-07-21

b) Other Technical and Craft Skilled

1) Ms. Karen Benjamin - Research Technician 1 - 2003-07-21

c) Clerical and Office Support

1) Mr. Ian Seegobin - Accounts Clerk 11 2003-08-30

- 67 -

d) Semi-Skilled Operatives and Unskilled

1) Ms. Onika Shepherd - General Worker 2003-07-01

2) Ms. Lucille Stephens - Security Guard 2003-03-01

3) Ms. Esther King - General Worker 2003-08-10

4) Ms. Godawry Needhee - Foreman 2003-12-01

4. TERMINATION OF CONTRACT

a) Other Technical and Craft Skilled

1) Mr. Vishnu Beharry - Mechanical Supervisor - 2003-07-01

5. TERMINATION OF SERVICE

a) Senior Technical

1) Ms. Rajkumarie Sookraj - Research Assistant - 2003-10-21

b) Semi-Skilled Operative and Unskilled

1) Mr. Victor Jones - Security Guard 2003-04-27

2) Mr. Husman Ally - Security Guard 2003-04-27

3) Mr. Roy Cottom - Security Guard 2003-03-27

4) Mr. Edward Desouza - Security Guard 2003-04-27

5) Mr. Samuel Yearwood - Security Guard 2003-04-27

6) Ms. Ramdularie - General Worker 2003-07-01

7) Mr. Seepaul - General Worker 2003-07-01

8) Mr. Victorine Gouveia - Security Guard 2003-07-01

9) Ms. Carmen Phillips - Security Guard 2003-07-01`

10) Mr. Neville Morris - Security Guard 2003-07-01

11) Mr. Patrick Thomas - Security Supervisor 2003-07-01

12) Mr. Vincent Gordon - Security Supervisor 2003-07-01

13) Ms. Cecelia Ross - Security Guard 2003-07-01

14) Ms. Patricia Durant - Sanitation Worker 2003-07-01

15) Mr. Oswald Sears - Snr. Stock Foreman 2003-07-01

16) Mr. Khemraj - Security Guard 2003-07-01

17) Mr. Peters Hares - Mob Equipment Operator -2003-08-01

- 68 -

6. DEATH

a) Semi-Skilled Operative and Unskilled

1) Mr. Leyland Wright - General Worker 2003-03-21

2) Ms. Dolly Grandison - Security Guard 2003-10-06

3) Ms. Anjanie Ramdhani - General Worker 2003-10-27

7. DISMISSAL

a) Senior Technical

1) Mr. Dalchan Lakhan - Research Assistant 2003-07-01

2) Mr. Kawal Jainarain - Research Assistant 2003-10-08

b) Semi-Skilled Operatives and Unskilled

1) Ms. Cheryl Profitt - General Worker 2003-02-25

2) Ms. Malsha Stephens - General Worker 2003-03-29

3) Mr. Curtis Patoir - General Worker 2003-06-02

4) Mr. Rameshchandra Singh - Driver 2003-06-21

5) Mr. Satyanand Narayan - General Worker 2003-07-08

6) Mr. Antonio Ignatius - General Worker 2003-08-10

7) Mr. Vidyanand Parmanand - General Worker 2003-08-18

8) Mr. Ishwar Mukhram - General Worker 2003-09-13

8. TRANSFER

a) Semi-Skilled Operative and Unskilled

1) Mr. Sookdeo - Foreman/Technician 2003-11-10

9. TRAINING

a) Overseas

Short Courses/Workshops/Seminars/Meetings/Study Tours/Conferences

Short Courses

1) Ms. Samantha Pooran , Research Assistant, participated in a Training

Programme on “Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural

Development” held in Hyderabad, India, from January 16 to February 26,

2003.

- 69 -

Workshops

1. Dr. Patrick Chesney, Research Scientist, participated in a Workshop on “The

Use of Geographic Information Tools for the Analyses of Biodiversity

Data”, held in Cali, Colombia, from March 10 to March 14, 2003.

2. Ms. Pratima Doodnauth, Research Assistant and Ms. Shelley Heath-London,

Research Technician 11, participated in a workshop on “Management of the

Citrus Black Fly”, held in Trinidad and Tobago, from March 24 to March

28, 2003.

3. Mr. David Fredericks, Research Scientist participated in a workshop on

“International Timber Organization (ITTO) guidelines for the

restoration, management and rehabilitation of degraded and secondary

tropical forest”, held in Ghana from July 21 to 25, 2003.

4. Mr. Juan Solomon, Research Assistant participated in the “Regional Small

Ruminant Workshop”, held in Barbados on September 26, 2003

Seminars

1. Mr. Nigel Cumberbatch, Senior Research Scientist, and Mr. Lambert Chester,

Research Scientist, participated in the “International Seminar Savantee”,

held in Brazil, from October 17 to October 24, 2003.

LOCAL

Short Courses

Ms. Mitchelle Lutchman, Research Assistant and Ms. Rajkumarie Sookraj, Research

Assistant, participated in a Training Course on ”Developing and Implementing a

Laboratory Management System, Meeting the Requirements of the ISO 17025

Standard, ‘General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration

Laboratories”, held in Guyana, from April 09 to April 12, 2003.

- 70 -

Table 6 shows the total number of staff members of the Institute in 2003. More than 55 percent of

the total positions were filled compared to 61 percent in 2002. As in 2002, the largest decrease was

in the semi-skilled, unskilled category. There were also decreases in the Administration, Other

technical and Craft skilled and Clerical and office support categories. There was an increase in the

Senior Technical category

TABLE 6: Staffing At NARI - 2003

Categories No. of

Positions Positions

Filled Positions Vacant

Administration 16 10 6Senior Technical 50 30 20Other Technical & Craft Skilled 70 36 34Clerical & Office Support 36 16 20Semi-skilled Operative & Unskilled 304 173 131

TOTAL 476

265 211

TABLE 7: Staffing In The Administration Category, NARI, 2003

Categories

Authorised Positions

Positions Filled

Vacant Posts

Director 1 1 0Head-of-Unit 3 2 1Admin/Finance Manager 1 1 0Internal Auditor 1 0 1P&IRO 1 1 0Librarian/Documentalist 1 0 1Assistant Librarian 1 0 1Senior Personnel Assistant 1 1 0Chief Accountant 1 0 1Superintendent, General Services 1 1 0Administrative Assistant 1 1 0Chief Security Officer 1 1 0Supervisor, General Services 1 0 1Deputy Chief Security Officer 1 1 0

TOTAL 16

10 6

- 71 -

TABLE 8: Staffing In The Senior Technical Category, NARI, 2003

Categories Authorised Positions

Positions Filled

Vacant Posts

Senior Research Scientist 8 1 7Research Scientist 20 12 8Senior Research Assistant 4 0 4Research Assistant 18 17 1

TOTAL 50

30 20

TABLE 9: Staffing In The Other Clerical And Office Support Category, NARI, 2003

Categories Authorised Positions

Positions Filled

Vacant Posts

Confidential Secretary 1 1 0Registry Supervisor 1 1 0Personnel Assistant 1 0 1Secretary 4 0 4Typist Clerk 1/11 5 3 2General Clerk 3 2 1Accounts Clerk 111 1 0 1Assistant Accountant 1 1 0Assistant Accountant (Audit) 1 0 1Accounts Clerk 11 4 3 1Inventory Clerk 2 0 2Records Clerk 2 1 1Audit Clerk 1 0 1Caratographic Trainee 1 0 1Expediter 1/11 1 1 0Telephonist 1/11 1 1 0Office Attendants 5 2 3Stores Clerk 1 0 1 TOTAL 36

16 20

- 72 -

TABLE 10: Staffing In The Other Technical And Craft Skilled Category, NARI, 2003

Categories Authorised Positions

Positions Filled

Vacant Posts

Senior Research Technician 5 2 3 Research Technician 11 9 9 0 Research Technician 1 22 10 12 Senior Field Assistant 1 0 1 Farm Manager 1 1 0 Plant Nursery Supervisor 1 0 1 Livestock Farm Supervisor 1 1 0 Senior Electrician 1 0 1 Mechanical Supervisor 1 0 1 Senior Mechanic 1 1 0 Senior Mechanic/Operator 1 1 0 Senior Storekeeper 2 1 1 Auto Electrician 1 0 1 Carpenter 4 2 2 Electrician 2 2 0 Mechanic 4 1 3 Plumber 2 0 2 Senior Library Assistant 1 1 0 Library Assistant 1 1 0 Mechanic Trainee 1 0 1 Senior Welder 1 0 1 Welder 1 1 0 Senior Carpenter 1 0 1 Senior Plumber 1 1 0 Assistant Plumber 1 0 1 Storekeeper 3 1 2 TOTAL

70

36

34

POSITIONS CREATED

Other Technical And Craft Skilled

Positions Filled

Communication Officer 1

Communication Information Specialist 1

Information Technology Technician 1

- 73 -

TABLE 11: Staffing In The Semi-Skilled And Unskilled Category, NARI, 2003

Categories Authorised

Positions Positions

Filled Vacant Posts

Security Guard 49 34 15 Nurseryman 1 15 6 9 Nurseryman 11 10 4 6 Crop Attendant 4 1 3 Plant Operator 2 0 2 Equipment Operator 7 4 3 Mobile Equipment Operator 9 4 5 Toolroom Attendant 1 0 1 Stores Attendant 2 0 2 Heavy Duty Driver 4 3 1 Heavy Duty Mobile Equipment Operator 1 0 1 Driver-Mechanic 3 0 3 Driver 6 2 4 Sanitation Worker 8 5 3 Personal Assistant 1 1 0 Senior Field Foreman 4 0 4 Senior Nursery Foreman 1 0 1 Senior Stock Foreman 1 0 1 Field Foreman 5 1 4 Nursery Foreman 5 3 2 Foreman 2 0 2 Stock Foreman 1 0 1 Assistant Foreman 3 2 1 Assistant Nursery Foreman 3 2 1 Laboratory Assistant 4 1 3 Laboratory Attendant 9 8 1 Senior Livestock Attendant 1 0 1 Caretaker 2 2 0 Livestock Attendant 4 2 2 Handyman 2 1 1 Porter 2 1 1 Library Attendant 1 0 1 Security Supervisor 3 1 2 Senior Guard 5 3 2 General Worker 120 82 38 Watchman 4 0 4 TOTAL

304

173

131